6  .  /  8-  '  '*'■ 


JS.V  PRINCETON,  N.  J.  '*// 


Purchased   by  the 
Mrs.    Robert   Lenox   Kennedy  Church   History   Fund. 


Division. .S))^. 
Section i..| o..*J..w.£v 

v>2 


UN  18  191R 


HISTORY  OF  THE  ^j,„lulst»^ 
ALLEGHANY  EVANGEL- 
ICAL LUTHERAN  SYNOD 
OF    PENNSYLVANIA 


TOGETHER  WITH  A  TOPICAL  HAND- 
BOOK OF  THE  EVANGELICAL  LUTH- 
ERAN CHURCH,  ITS  ANCESTRY, 
ORIGIN    AND    DEVELOPMENT 


By  REV.  W.  H.  BRUCE  CARNEY 

IN  TWO  VOLUMES 
VOL.  II 


PUBLISHED  BY  THE  AUTHORITY  OF  ALLE- 
GHANY SYNOD  IN  COMMEMORATION  OF  ITS 
SEVENTY-FIFTH  ANNIVERSARY.  AND  OF  THE 
QUADRICENTENNIAL    OF    THE    REFORMATION 


PRINTED    FOR   THE    SYNOD    BY 

THE  LUTHERAN  PUBLICATION  SOCIETY 
PHILADELPHIA.  PA. 


Copyright,  1918,  by 
THE    LUTHERAN    PUBLICATION    SOCIETY 


ST.  PAUL'S,  TROUTVILLE 


LUTHERSBURG  CHARGE 
Rev.  W .  Seiner,  Pastor 
St.  Paul's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
troutville,  brady  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 
The   earliest   Lutheran  traveling  missionaries   through   Clear- 
field County,  of  whom  Rev.  George  A.  Reichert  was  the  first, 
preached  here  in  1822,  at  Mr.  Jacob  Kuntz's  house.     The  work 
continued  in  this  way  until  the  arrival  of  the  Rev.  Willox,  in 


ST.    PAUL  S    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    TROUTVILLE 

1840.  And  from  that  time  on,  services  were  held  in  the  school- 
house  until  the  church  was  built.  Here  Rev.  Christian  Diehl 
had  organized  a  congregation,  but  during  our  Civil  War  and  its 
excitement  the  organization  was  not  kept  up.  A  part  of  the  time 
under  these  circumstances  it  was  rather  considered  a  station 
belonging  to  the  Luthersburg  congregation.  From  1822,  all  the 
Lutheran  ministers  preached  at  Troutville  that  served  Luthers- 
burg. All  who  could  preach  in  the  German  language  were 
preferable  here,  and  all  the  parochial  reports  are  contained  in 
the  history  of  the  Clearfield  and  Luthersburg  congregations. 

455 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


On  October  7,  1876,  Rev.  E.  Manges,  pastor  of  the  Luthers- 
burg  pastorate,  organized,  or,  rather,  re-organized  the  congrega- 
tion at  Troutville,  with  twenty-eight  charter  members.  His  paro- 
chial report  is  given  in  the  history  of  the  Luthersburg 
congregation. 

From  October  1,  1879  to  January  31,  1882,  Rev.  J.  T.  Glad- 
hill  served.  On  May  1,  1882,  Rev.  W.  Seiner  took  charge  of 
the  Luthersburg  pastorate,  and  on  June  29,  1884,  the  corner- 
stone for  a  Lutheran  church  was  laid  by  him,  Rev.  Best,  of  New 
Bethlehem,  preaching  the  sermon.  The  new  church  was  dedi- 
cated on  December  21,  1884,  free  of  debt,  Rev.  W.  W.  Criley 
of  Altoona  preaching  the  sermon  and  Rev.  Best  in  the  evening. 
The  church  is  a  frame  structure,  32  by  50  feet,  with  a  tower 
and  recess  of  ten  feet,  well  furnished,  costing  about  $2,000.  It 
was  a  joyful  occasion.  Three  members,  Amos  Bonsall,  Samuel 
Kuntz  and  Daniel  Rishel,  undertook  to  build  the  church  them- 
selves. Had  it  not  been  for  these  men,  who  paid  two-thirds  of 
the  debt,  the  likelihood  is  that  the  congregation  would  be  without 
a  church  to-day,  or  would  have  become  defunct.  Mr.  Amos 
Bonsall  gave  the  lot  on  which  the  church  stands. 

In  the  early  history  of  the  country,  prior  to  the  organization 
of  the  Lutheran  church  at  Troutville,  Jacob  Kuntz  immigrated 
from  Germany  to  the  vicinity  of  what  is  now  the  borough  of 
Troutville.  The  country  was  but  little  better  than  a  howling 
wilderness,  settled  but  very  sparsely.  Father  Kuntz  gathered 
together  the  few  children  that  were  in  the  vicinity  on  Sundays 
and  taught  them  best  as  he  could.  Later  on  a  union  Sunday 
school  was  organized  on  what  is  now  known  as  the  Kohler 
farm,  about  the  year  1859.  The  Kuntz  school  merged  into  this 
school.  Later  on  this  school  was  transferred  to  the  St.  Paul's 
Lutheran  place  of  worship  soon  after  the  organization  of  the 
congregation.  During  more  recent  years  it  became  a  Lutheran 
school,  having  adopted  a  Lutheran  constitution  and  using  the 
Augsburg  literature. 

St.  Peter's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
luthersr.urg,  brady  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 
This    is    another    and    the    last    of    the    original  congregations 
which  Rev.  Willox  organized  in  Clearfield  County  in  1840.     He 
456 


ST.  PETER'S,  LUTHERSBURG 


resigned  at  the  end  of  the  same  year.  Rev.  Gotwald  also 
preached  with  great  zeal  at  Luther sburg  and  adjacent  points 
for  awhile. 

Synod  had  authorized  a  layman,  Father  Guelich,  as  lay  reader. 
During  vacancies,  Father  Guelich  visited  the  congregation.  The 
people  assembled,  and  the  lay  reader  conducted  devotional 
services  and  read  sermons  to  them. 

In  1844,  a  Lutheran  church  was  built,  forty  feet  square,  a 
frame  structure.  Rev.  J.  A.  Nuner,  yet  a  licentiate,  served  the 
people  for  about  a  year,  1845- 1846. 


ST.     PETERS     LUTHERAN     CHURCH,     LUTHERSBURG 

Rev.  J.  George  Donmeyer  took  charge  of  the  work  on  April  1, 
1848.  Rev.  Donmeyer  also  preached  in  the  Grube  settlement 
and  Sprangle's  Mills,  and  other  points  in  Jefferson  County,  even 
as  far  as  Smicksburg,  in  the  southwestern  corner  of  Indiana 
County. 

On  September  9,  1843,  the  Luthersburg  or  St.  Peter's  con- 
gregation adopted  a  constitution.  After  several  years  of  earnest 
effort,  Rev.  Donmeyer  resigned. 

About  June   1,   1847,  Rev.  Peter  P.  Lane  took  charge  of  the 

457 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


congregation.     He  resigned  about  the  first  of   185 1. 

About  July  1,  1852,  Rev.  Christian  Diehl,  under  ad  interim 
license,  took  charge  of  the  work.  He  resigned  about  July  15, 
1856. 

Rev.  William  H.  Rex,  also  under  ad  interim  license,  took 
charge  of  the  Clearfield  pastorate,  of  which  the  Luthersburg  or 
St.  Peter's  congregation  was  a  part,  on  July  15,  1856,  and  on 
account  of  ill  health  resigned  on  March  1,  1858. 

About  April  1,  1858,  Rev.  J.  J.  Stine  took  charge  of  the  work. 
He  resigned  about  January  1,  1859. 

In  the  spring  of  1859,  Rev.  J.  R.  Focht  took  charge  of  the 
Clearfield  pastorate,  and  preached  one  year  at  Luthersburg, 
after  which,  by  action  of  the  joint  council,  April  1,  i860, 
Luthersburg,  Troutville  or  St.  Paul's,  a  then  already  organized 
congregation,  and  other  adjacent  points,  were  made  the  Luthers- 
burg pastorate.     Rev.  Focht  resigned  at  the  close  of  the  year. 

Rev.  Joseph  Welker  supplied  Luthersburg  and  the  other  points 
with  preaching  for  about  one  year,  and  as  he  belonged  to  the 
Pittsburgh  Synod,  he  never  reported  to  the  Alleghany  Synod. 

About  July  1,  1862,  Rev.  J.  H.  Bratten  took  charge  of  the 
Luthersburg  congregation  and  the  other  points  connected  with 
it.  He  also  supplied  Clearfield.  He  resigned  on  July  1,  1864. 
A  vacancy  of  over  three  years  occurred  to  the  detriment  of  the 
congregation  and  the  entire  charge. 

On  December  1,  1867,  Rev.  Samuel  S.  Stouffer  took  charge 
of  the  pastorate.  He  also  supplied  the  Grube  and  Paradise  con- 
gregations in  Jefferson  County.  He  resigned  on  September  1, 
1869,  and  moved  into  the  bounds  of  the  Pittsburgh  Synod. 

Another  vacancy,  during  which  Rev.  Thompson,  of  New  Mill- 
port, occasionally  preached  for  them,  and  on  August  13  held 
communion.  Rev.  Fastnacht,  from  the  seminary  at  Gettysburg, 
supplied  them  for  a  short  time. 

On  March  1,  1873,  Rev.  E.  Manges  took  charge  of  the  work. 
In  1874  he  also  began  to  preach  for  the  Grube  and  Paradise 
congregations.  In  1875,  Mr.  Frederick  K.  Arnold,  who  had 
bought  two  lots,  for  which  he  had  paid  $250,  deeded  them  to 
the  congregation,  upon  which  they  erected  a  parsonage  at  a  cost 
of  $1,500.  The  congregation  repaired  their  church  at  a  cost  of 
$300.  The  pastor  also  supplied  some  other  points.  On  Febru- 
458 


ST.  JOHN'S,  ROCKTON 


ary  19,  1876,  he  organized  a  congregation  in  DuBois,  then  a 
growing  town,  with  nineteen  members,  which  after  awhile  fell 
into  the  hands  of  the  Pittsburgh  Synod  of  the  General  Council. 
The  pastor  resigned  on  April  1,  1878. 

On  April  1,  1879,  Rev.  J.  T.  Gladhill  took  charge.  He  also 
supplied  other  points.     He  resigned  on  January  31,  1882. 

On  May  1,  1882,  Rev.  W.  Seiner  took  charge  of  the  congre- 
gation. A  new  church  was  built  in  1883.  The  corner-stone  was 
laid  on  May  27,  1883,  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean,  of  Clearfield,  preaching 
the  sermon.  The  church  was  dedicated  on  November  18,  1883, 
free  of  debt,  Rev.  W.  W.  Criley,  of  the  Second  Church  of 
Altoona,  preaching  the  dedicatory  sermon  and  doing  the  solicit- 
ing of  funds.  Rev.  E.  Manges  preached  in  the  evening..  The 
church  is  a  frame  building,  38  by  60  feet,  with  a  steeple  ninety- 
four  feet  high.  The  entire  cost  was  about  $5,000.  The  building 
committee  consisted  of  Daniel  Goodlander,  Lucien  Seyler,  J.  H. 
Edinger  and  T.  F.  Rishel.  True,  the  church  was  dedicated  free 
of  debt  in  the  sense  that  the  money  was  subscribed,  but  the 
shrinkages  and  interest  after  awhile  showed  a  debt  of  $1,450, 
which  was  finally  liquidated.  The  congregation,  though  three- 
quarters  of  a  century  old,  never  stained  its  record  by  a  single 
church  fight. 

A  Sunday  school  has  been  sustained  from  the  very  origin  of 
the  congregation.  Originally  it  was  a  union  school,  but  gradu- 
ally merged  into  a  Lutheran  school.  The  prominent  fathers 
and  leaders  of  the  school  were  Frederick  K.  Arnold,  Peter 
Arnold,  Daniel  Goodlander.  and,  later  on,  J.  H.  Edinger,  who  is 
still  active  in  the  work.  The  congregation  has  an  active  Ladies' 
Aid  Society. 

St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 

rockton,  union  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 

Since  the  year  1857,  the  Lutheran  ministers  who  served 
Luthersburg  also  preached  occasionally  at  Rockton,  in  a  school- 
house,  to  accommodate  the  few  Lutheran  people  there  that 
belonged  to  the  Luthersburg  congregation.  But  as  time  rolled 
on  and  circumstances  favored  them,  Mr.  Joseph  R.  Arnold,  a 
prominent  member  of  the  church  and  enterprising  business  man, 

459 


NOR  THE  A  S  T  CONFERENCE 


bought  the  schoolhouse  at  public  sale,  in  1874,  for  church  pur- 
poses. After  Rev.  E.  Manges,  on  May  31,  had  organized  the 
congregation  with  thirty-five  charter  members,  he  continued  to 
preach  regularly  in  the  schoolhouse.  In  the  spring  of  1876,  the 
new  congregation  decided  to  build  a  church.  The  building  com- 
mittee was  Joseph  R.  Arnold,  W.  W.  Dunlap,  P.  H.  Crick,  David 
Welty  and  Joseph  Schofield.  On  August  24,  1876,  the  corner- 
stone was  laid  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  H.  Baker,  of  Altoona,  preach- 
ing the  sermon.  Revs.  J.  M.  Wonders,  of  Brookville ;  W.  E. 
Crebs,  of  Smicksburg;  P.  B.  Shirk,  of  New  Millport,  and  Smith 
(Presbyterian),  of  Reynoldsville,  assisted.  The  church  was  dedi- 
cated on  September  30,  1877,  Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  York,  Pa.,, 
preaching  the  sermon.  The  church  was  a  frame  structure,  38  by 
60  feet,  costing  about  $3,000.  Rev.  E.  Manges  resigned  on 
April  1,  1878. 

On  April  1,  1879,  Rev.  J.  T.  Gladhill  took  charge  of  the  con- 
gregation.    He  resigned  on  January  31,  1882. 

On  May  1,  1882,  Rev.  W.  Seiner  took  charge  of  the  work, 
and  still  continues  as  pastor.  A  debt  of  $865  still  stared  them 
in  the  face  like  a  gruesome  ghost.  The  pastor,  with  the  assistance 
of  J.  H.  Edinger,  of  Luthersburg,  succeeded  in  liquidating  the 
debt.    The  people  were  glad  to  get  out  of  bondage. 

In  1910,  the  congregation  erected  a  neat,  beautiful,  commodi- 
ous little  frame  church,  32  by  54  feet,  with  tower  and  bell  and 
furnace.  The  house  is  well  furnished.  The  entire  cost  was 
$3,000.  It  was  dedicated  in  August,  191 1,  Rev.  A.  R.  Longa- 
necker,  of  DuBois,  preaching  the  sermon.  Since  the  debt  was 
only  $51,  the  auctioneering  method  was  dispensed  with.  The 
regular  offering  was  taken  up,  which  was  $70.  Then  the  dedi- 
cation was  free  of  debt  in  a  true  sense.  The  building  committee 
consisted  of  S.  B.  Welty,  Maime  Bailey,  C.  H.  Coldwell,  Mrs. 
Cecilia  Peoples  and  Mrs.  Recissa  Dressier  and  Oscar  Dressier. 

From  the  first  a  little  Sunday  school  was  sustained.  During 
the  early  incumbency  of  the  present  pastor,  thirty-four  years  ago, 
J.  M.  Dressier,  William  Welty  and  S.  B.  Welty  were  the  promi- 
nent characters  in  the  Sunday  school.  The  school  became  ever- 
green, open  all  the  year  round,  and  Lutheran  by  the  adoption 
of  a  new  constitution. 

A  prayer  service  and  weekly  teachers'  meeting  are  held  regu- 
460 


PARADISE,  WINSLOW  TOWNSHIP,  JEFFERSON  COUNTY 

larly.     A  Ladies'  Aid  Society  exists.     A  Young  People's  Tem- 
perance Society  was  organized. 

Paradise  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 
winslow  township,  jefferson  county,  pa. 

In  the  early  history  of  the  country,  the  Fultzes,  the  Strouses 
and  others  came  from  Westmoreland  County,  Pa.,  and  settled 
in  the  wilds,  what  is  now  known  as  "Paradise."  They  were  the 
sturdy  sons  of  toil.  They  were  devoutly  religious.  As  Pennsyl- 
vania-German Lutherans  they  longed  for  the  preaching  of  the 
gospel  and  the  ordinances  of  the  Christian  religion  according  to 
their  faith.  The  date  of  the  organization  of  the  church  is 
unknown,  as  no  record  is  to  be  found.  Lutheran  ministers  from 
Brookville  and  elsewhere  preached  in  barns,  in  dwelling  houses 
and  shops  until  an  organization  had  become  effected,  when  they 
worshiped  in  the  Cyphert  M.  E.  Church  until  they  succeeded 
in  securing  a  house  of  worship  of  their  own,  which  was  an 
abandoned  schoolhouse  they  purchased,  repaired  and  enlarged. 
This  building  was  dedicated  August  12,  1877,  Rev.  W.  E.  Crebs 
preaching  the  sermon. 

In  1874,  Rev.  E.  Manges,  of  Luthersburg,  took  charge  of  the 
congregation,  who  was  greatly  beloved  by  his  faithful  flock. 
After  his  incumbency,  a  new  pastorate  was  effected  in  Jefferson 
County,  consisting  of  the  Grube,  Swab,  St.  Matthew  and  Para- 
dise congregations,  which  was  of  short  duration,  proving  to  be 
a  complete  failure.  Rev.  J.  T.  Gladhill,  of  Luthersburg,  supplied 
the  congregation  for  about  one  year.  Rev.  W.  E.  Crebs  also 
did  some  work  for  them,  after  Rev.  Gladhill's  resignation. 

A  vacancy  of  eight  years  followed,  during  which  time  they 
were  not  only  deprived  of  pastoral  care,  but  imposed  upon  by 
many  sects  and  isms.  Finally  the  door  closed.  Rev.  W.  Seiner, 
of  Luthersburg,  occasionally  supplied  them  with  preaching,  and 
was  much  pleased  with  the  spirit  the  people,  diminished  to  eight 
members,  manifested  toward  him.  The  congregation  took  on 
new  life  and  began  to  grow.  July  15,  1888,  Rev.  W.  Seiner 
took  charge  of  the  congregation  as  their  pastor.  October  18, 
1891,  the  congregation,  by  a  rising  vote,  decided  to  erect  a  new 
and    more    convenient    church    edifice.       Martin    Strouse,    Noah 

461 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Strouse  and  Lewis  Ludwick  were  appointed  a  building  commit- 
tee. Martin  Strouse,  not  wishing  to  serve,  was  relieved  by 
appointing  William  D.  Reynolds  to  take  his  place.  Noah  Strouse 
acted  as  solicitor  and  Lewis  Ludwick  as  treasurer.  In  May, 
1892,  the  corner-stone  was  laid  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  J.  J.  Kerr,  of 
Brookville,  preaching  the  sermon.  April  30,  1893,  the  new 
church  was  dedicated,  free  of  debt,  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger 
preaching  the  sermon  and  doing  the  soliciting.  The  building  is 
a  frame  veneered  with  brick — a  neat  little  structure,  a  monument 
of  the  devotion  and  liberality  of  the  faithful  few.  The  building 
cost  about  $2,000. 

October  1,  1893,  the  congregation  decided  to  sever  their  con- 
nection with  the  Pittsburgh  Synod  and  unite  with  the  Alleghany 
Synod  and  become  an  integral  part  of  the  Luthersburg  pastorate. 
The  request  was  granted.  With  the  exception  of  a  few  years, 
the  congregation  always  has  had  a  Sunday  school  almost  from 
the  time  of  its  organization.  Lewis  Ludwick,  Noah  Strouse, 
Jacob  Strouse  and  George  Strouse  were  quite  prominent  in  the 
Sunday  school  in  the  past.  Lewis  Ludwick  served  as  superin- 
tendent for  many  years,  until  affliction  and  old  age  compelled 
him  to  relinquish  the  work.  The  children  used  to  call  the  school 
Uncle  Lew's  school.  In  more  recent  years  the  school  became  a 
Lutheran  school.  The  congregation  has  remained  small,  only 
twelve  members  at  present  writing,  but  free  from  strife  and 
pleasant  to  serve. 


ST.  MATTHEW  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

MARTINSBURG,  PA. 

Rev.  IV.  W .  Frey,  Pastor 

It  is  impossible  to  state  when  Lutheranism  or  the  church 
which  was  named  after  Luther  first  came  into  Morrison's  Cove. 
Among  the  first  settlers  were  Lutherans,  and  for  many  years 
religious  services  were  held  in  their  dwelling  houses,  afterwards 
in  school  buildings ;  then,  soon  as  they  were  able,  in  church  edi- 
fices erected  for  the  worship  of  God.  Missionaries  came  from 
Harrisburg  as  early  as  1785.  Rev.  Reichert,  from  Indiana,  Pa., 
preached  here  in  1824,  Rev.  William  Yeager,  of  Bedford,  in  1829, 
462 


ST.  MATTHEW'S,  MARTINSBURG 


and  in  the  Minutes  of  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod  of  1831, 
Martinsburg  is  listed  among  vacant  congregations  in  Huntingdon 
County,  supplied  by  Rev.  Jacob  Martin,  of  Williamsburg. 

After  the  Reformed  congregation  completed  their  house  in 
1832,  by  mutual  agreement  the  Lutherans  used  it  at  regular  inter- 
vals up  to  1842,  when  they  erected  one  of  their  own.  Rev. 
Martin,  of  Williamsburg,  was  supply  for  Clover  Creek  and  other 
churches  up  to  1833,  when  Rev.  J.  H.  Hoffman,  preaching  at 
Newry,  Potter  Creek  and  other  places,  became  supply.     Rev.  C. 


st.  Matthew's  Lutheran  church,  martinsburg,  pa. 

C.  Guenther  was  a  supply  from  1837  to  1838,  when  Rev.  John 
G.  Ellinger,  a  licentiate,  took  charge  of  churches  at  Clover 
Creek,  Marklesburg,  Cassville  and  Martinsburg  as  supply.  In 
1839  he  moved  to  Martinsburg  and  preached  here  regularly  every 
two  weeks,  also  introducing  English  preaching.  While  the  exact 
date  of  the  organization  of  the  congregation  is  not  definitely 
recorded,  yet  it  is  known  that  there  was  a  church  of  the  Lutheran 
faith  prior  to  June  9,  1839;  for  on  that  date  Rev.  Ellinger's 
records  show  that  fifty-five  members  communed  and  that  a  large 

463 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Northeast  Conference 


REV.     ISAAC     KRIDER, 
Duncansville,   Pa. 


REV.   W.   SELNER, 
Luthersburg,  Pa. 


REV.     PETER    G.     BELL, 

Associate   Pastor, 
Temple,   Altoona,   Pa. 


REV.   I.   P.   HAWKINS, 
Curwensville,  Pa. 


REV.     W.     R.     WIEAND,     D.D., 
Associate   Pastor,   Temple   Church,   Altoona 


REV.    (',.    F.    SNYDER, 
Altoona,    Pa. 


REV.   J.    H.    HOUSEMAN 
luniata,    Pa. 


REV.    MARION    J.    KLINE, 

D.D. 

Altoona,   Pa. 


464 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Northeast  Conference 


REV.  RALPH  BERGSTRESSER, 
Altoona,   Pa. 


REV.   J.    M.   REARICK, 
Williamsburg,   Pa. 


REV.    S.    J.    TAYLOR,    D.D.,  REV.   J.   F.    SEEBACH,  REV.    H.    H.   FLICK,   JR. 

Juniata,  Pa.  Hollidaysburg,    Pa.  .  Glasgow,    Pa. 


REV.    FRANK    P.    FISHER, 
Altoona,    Pa. 


REV.    F.    H.    SCHRADER, 
Newry,    Pa. 


465 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Northeast  Conference 


REV.    H.    E.    BERKEY, 
Roaring  Spring,  Pa. 


REV.    M.    H.    KRUMBINE, 
Altoona,    Pa. 


REV.     EARL    J.    BOWMAN,  REV.   A.  B.  VAN   ORMER, 

Philipsburg,    Pa.  Altoona,    Pa. 


REV.    W.    L.    PRICE, 
Hollidaysburg,  Pa. 


REV.    CHARLES    LAMBERT, 
Bcllwood,    Pa. 


REV.    W.    W.    FREY, 
Martinsburg,   Pa. 


466 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Northeast  Conference 


REV.    J.    P.    MILLER, 
Tyrone,    Pa. 


REV.   M.  J.  ROSS,, 
Tyrone,  Pa. 


REV.  K.  E.  IRVIN, 
DuBois,    Pa. 


REV.    H.   L.   THOMAS, 

Keewaydin,    Pa. 


REV.   E.   R.    HAUSER, 
East  Altoona,  Pa. 


REV.    J.    R.    RAUSCH, 
New  Millport,  Pa. 


REV.    W.    W.    BARKLEY, 
Altoona,  Pa. 


467 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


class  of  catechumens  was  confirmed.  He  continued  as  pastor 
until  the  spring  of  1842. 

In  the  fall  of  1842,  Rev.  Benjamin  Laubach,  who  was 
licensed  on  September  13,  at  the  first  meeting  of  the  Alleghany 
Synod,  took  charge.  He  had  preached  as  supply  at  the  Barley 
and  Potter  churches,  while  studying  theology  under  Rev.  Reuben 
Weiser  of  Bedford,  and  in  connection  with  Clover  Creek  and 
Martinsburg  served  these  congregations  for  about  a  year.  He 
held  his  first  and  last  communion  here  on  November  21,  1842, 
when  seventy-five  persons  communed.  During  the  winter  of 
1843,  while  going  from  Martinsburg  to  Clover  Creek  to  fill  his 
appointment,  he  was  overtaken  by  a  heavy  storm  of  rain  and 
sleet  and  wind.  His  garments  were  all  wet  to  the  body.  He 
returned  to  the  home  of  Christian  Acker,  took  a  bad  cold,  which 
brought  on  hasty  pulmonary  consumption.     He  died  on  July  21, 

i843- 

Many   of   the   early   church   records   are   lost.       In    1843,   the 

Lutherans  erected  a  new  church,  which  was  dedicated  Janu- 
ary 27.  Another  church  was  built  in  1852.  The  corner-stone 
was  laid  July  10,  and  on  November  14,  1852,  the  completed 
structure  was  dedicated  as  St.  Matthew  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church.  The  name  previously  given  was  Zion  Church.  Rev. 
Henry  Baker  preached  the  dedication  sermon.  The  edifice  then 
dedicated  was  afterwards  sold  to  "The  Saints"  and  is  now  the 
carriage  shop  of  A.  Z.  Bulger. 

The  Alleghany  Synod  has  met  in  Martinsburg  on  different 
occasions. 

The  following  were  pastors  here  :  Rev.  William  G.  Laitzle, 
1844-1848;  Elias  Schwartz,  1848-1850;  D.  J.  Eyler,  1850-1852; 
Joseph  Fichtner,  1852-1853;  J.  Richards,  1853-1855 ;  Henry 
Seifert,  1855-1860;  Daniel  Stock,  1860-1864;  P.  S.  Hooper,  1864- 
1866;  P.  Sheeder,  1867-1868;  Charles  L.  Streamer,  1 868-1 875  ; 
Daniel  Stock,  1875-1879;  E.  Dutt,  1880-1897. 

On  February  1,  1880,  Rev.  E.  Dutt  commenced  his  labors  in 
the  Martinsburg  pastorate,  consisting  of  four  congregations,  viz. : 
Martinsburg,  Roaring  Spring,  Barley's  and  Potter's.  On  May  25, 
1882,  a  congregation  was  organized  in  Woodbury  and  the  same 
was  added  to  the  charge.  April,  1889,  Roaring  Spring  congrega- 
tion withdrew  and  became  self-sustaining. 
468 


ST.  MATTHEWS,  MARTINSBURG 


February  19,  1893,  a  congregational  meeting  decided  to  build 
a  new  church  in  Martinsburg.  On  November  12,  a  vote  was 
taken  in  favor  of  selling  the  old  church  and  buying  a  new  site 
east  of  and  adjoining  the  parsonage,  from  Daniel  Brown.  June  9, 
1894,  the  corner-stone  of  the  new  church  was  laid  by  Rev.  Dutt. 
On  February  3,  1895,  the  new  church  was  dedicated  by  the 
pastor.  Rev.  H.  H.  Weber,  D.D.  made  an  address  and  solicited 
funds  on  this  occasion.  Revs.  P.  G.  Bell,  A.  H.  Shertz  and  J.  F. 
Hartman  were  present  and  participated.  The  cost  of  the  church 
was  about  $7,000.  Rev.  Dutt  resigned  on  January  18,  1897,  and 
closed  his  labors  here  on  August  31,  1897,  having  served  the 
Martinsburg  pastorate  seventeen  years  and  seven  months. 

The  edifice  as  it  stands  at  present  is  a  handsome  brick  build- 
ing of  substantial  proportions,  adapted  to  the  needs  of  a  growing 
congregation,  centrally  located.  It  has  a  large  auditorium,  lec- 
ture room,  primary  department,  with  sliding  partitions,  also  three 
vestibules  and  a  cloak  room.  The  building  is  heated  by  steam 
and  is  lighted  by  electricity.  There  are  about  twenty  beautiful 
memorial  art  glass  windows  and  the  comfortable  pews  are  all 
equipped  with  books  and  racks  which  aid  in  the  worship  of  God 
in  His  sanctuary. 

Rev.  S.  E.  Slater  began  his  labors  in  this  field  April  1,  1898. 
He  resigned  in  about  a  year  and  left  June  30,  1899.  Rev.  C.  M. 
Aurand  received  a  call  October  2,  1899,  and  on  November  8  was 
installed  pastor.  After  renovating  the  church  building  at  a  cost 
of  $1,100,  a  re-dedication  service  was  held  on  January  6,  1904. 
Rev.  Aurand's  resignation  took  effect  October  6,  1907.  Rev.  M. 
S.  Sharp  became  pastor  February  1,  1908,  and  tendered  his  resig- 
nation December  28,  1910.  Rev.  Charles  R.  Streamer  became 
pastor  April  1,  191 1.  The  charge  then  consisted  of  St.  Matthew's, 
Potter,  Barley  and  Woodbury.  Rev.  Streamer  resigned  Octo- 
ber 1,  1914.  During  1914-1915  the  charge  was  divided,  at  the 
request  of  the  congregations  belonging  to  it,  St.  Matthew's 
becoming  independent  and  the  other  three  congregations  consti- 
tuting the  Woodbury  charge.  The  parsonage  in  Martinsburg 
became  the  property  of  the  St.  Matthew's  congregation  by  pur- 
chase. The  present  pastor  of  St.  Matthew's  is  W.  W.  Frey, 
who  took  charge  May  9,  1915. 

The   congregation   numbers    (1916)    311    confirmed   members. 

469 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


The  Sunday  school  in  all  its  departments,  including  Cradle  Roll 
and  Home  Departments,  numbers  about  275.  There  are  also 
the  Ladies'  Aid  Society,  the  Ladies'  Quilting  Society,  Men's 
Brotherhood,  Christian  Endeavor  Society,  and  catechetical 
•classes.  This  congregation  is  active  in  lines  of  work  at  home  and 
abroad.  From  existent  records  two  pastors  have  gone  into  the 
ministry  from  this  congregation,  C.  G.  Aurand,  1913,  and  C.  E. 
Liebegott,  1914. 


NEWRY  CHARGE 

Rev.  F.  H.  Schrader,  Pastor 

Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

newry,  blair  county,  pa. 

The  history  of  this  congregation,  without  a  doubt  the  oldest 
Lutheran  congregation  in  Blair  County,  begins  with  the  latter 
part  of  the  eighteenth  century.  It  is  probable  that  as  early  as 
1785  a  considerable  number  of  German  Lutherans  had  settled  in 
this  community,  coming  from  Centre  and  other  eastern  counties. 
There  is,  however,  no  record  of  any  place  of  worship  or  who 
ministered  to  them  in  these  early  days.  We  know,  however,  that 
they  must  have  settled  in  these  parts  in  considerable  numbers, 
and  probably  had  some  organization,  for  we  find  that  on  June  6, 
1 80 1,  Patrick  Cassidy,  a  Roman  Catholic,  gave  a  deed  for  three- 
quarters  of  an  acre  of  ground  to  Christian  Swank,  Christian 
Lingafelter  and  John  Beathel,  trustees  of  the  Evangelical  Lu- 
theran Church,  on  the  following  conditions :  "That  the  trustees 
of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  are  to  build  or  cause  to  be 
built  on  said  lot  or  piece  of  land,  within  one  year  from  date  of 
these  presents,  a  church  or  meeting-house  thirty  (30)  feet  long 
and  twenty-six  (26)  feet  wide,  and  also  to  fence  or  pale  in  the 
said  lot  in  a  good  and  workmanlike  manner." 

These  conditions  were  evidently  fulfilled,  or  the  congregation 
could  not  have  held  the  lot  as  they  did.  The  church,  however, 
was  not  finished  at  this  time,  as  it  has  been  handed  down  to  this 
generation  that  the  people  sat  on  the  sleepers  instead  of  pews, 
and  used  the  earth  as  a  floor.  The  pulpit  was  made  of  rough 
470 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  NEWRY 


lumber.  A  receipt  found  in  the  old  church  book  states  that  Peter 
Cassidy  was  paid  four  dollars  and  twelve  cents  for  boards  to  close 
the  alley  at  the  church,  September  6,  1815.  Another  receipt, 
dated  May  23,  181 6,  states  that  Mr.  E.  Hebby  was  paid  forty 
dollars  to  put  a  pulpit  into  the  church :  signed,  Jacob  Weber, 
building  committee.  This  church  was  built  of  logs,  and  was  in 
use  till  the  second  church  was  built,  in  1834-36. 

Of  the  men  who  preached  here  at  this  time,  and  what  minis- 
terial acts  they  performed,  we  have  no  records,  as  the  old  records 
written  in  the  German  language  on  sheets  of  foolscap  paper  were 


NEWRY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH.     BUILT    1874 

destroyed  with  a  lot  of  rubbish,  as  worthless,  a  number  of  years 
ago.  We  learn,  however,  that  Rev.  Haas,  who  came  to  Hunt- 
ingdon County  in  1804,  preached  here  till  1810  or  1811,  when  he 
resigned. 

Rev.  John  H.  Hammer,  a  German  Reformed  minister  who 
preached  through  these  parts  about  this  time,  also  preached  in 
Newry  from  1810  to  1813.  The  old  church  book,  which  was 
presented  to  this  congregation,  April  18,  1813,  by  Jacob  Weber 
(Weaver),  contains  a  frontispiece  in  German,  done  by  Rev.  John 
H.  Hammer. 

471 


N  OK  THE  A  S  T  CONFERENCE 


The  first  communion  and  confirmation  of  which  we  have  any 
record  was  held  by  "Rev.  John  Paul  Ferdinand  Kramer,  M.V.D. 
et  Professor  in  Acad.;  Bedfordensis."  The  number  confirmed 
was  ten,  as  follows:  Daniel  Demmerling,  Johonnes  Glunt  (a 
son  of  whom,  Abraham  Glunt,  aged  ninety-six  [now  living,  191 7], 
two  grandchildren,  three  great-grandchildren  and  one  great-great- 
granddaughter,  are  now  members  of  this  congregation),  William 
Dustz,  Michael  Reffner,  Lambain  Haines,  Hengel  Masden, 
Elizabeth  Lowes,  Elizabeth  Beathel,  Margaretta  Wertz,  John 
Weisner. 

The  communicants  recorded  for  that  day  are  as  follows : 
Jacob  Wertz  and  wife,  Jacob  Weber  (Weaver)  and  wife,  Lud- 
wig  Demmerling,  Barbara  Widna,  Anna  Reffner,  Glory  Lown- 
inglay,  John  Shadel  and  wife,  Jacob  Dauer,  Jolmon  Stein,  Eliza- 
beth Stein  and  others,  in  addition  to  those  confirmed. 

Rev.  Kramer  served  this  congregation  till  1818;  Rev.  Kramer 
was,  therefore,  the  second  minister  of  this  congregation  of  whom 
we  have  any  record. 

During  the  next  few  years  the  congregation  seems  to  have 
been  without  any  settled  pastor,  although  we  find  that  Mr. 
George  Schmick  baptized  children  as  early  as  1817,  and  recorded 
the  names  in  the  church  book,  while  yet  a  student. 

Rev.  Christian  Frederick  ("Father")  Heyer  is  known  to  have 
exercised  some  pastoral  care  over  this  church  along  with  a  num- 
ber of  others,  from  1820  to  1822,  as  a  missionary  pastor.  Rev. 
Francis  Heyer  Weaver,  now  living,  was  given  this  name  by  his 
father  on  account  of  the  esteem  in  which  he  held  Rev.  Heyer. 

Rev.  George  Schmick,  who  had  been  given  a  catechist's  license 
in  1818,  now  became  the  next  regular  pastor  in  1822.  On 
May  4  of  that  year  he  confirmed  thirty-one  persons,  and 
June  23,  1825,  confirmed  thirty-nine  persons,  a  total  of  seventy. 
During  the  years  1826  and  1827  the  records  show  a  membership 
of  107  to  114.  In  1828,  however,  this  man  was  deposed  from 
the  Lutheran  ministry  by  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod  for  his 
immoral  and  unchristian  conduct. 

At  this   same  time    (1825  to   1828)    Rev.   Wilhelm  An-Dyke, 

.  an   "ordained   minister   of   the   Evangelical   Reformed   Church." 

also  preached   here,   baptized   a  number  of   children,   confirmed 

sixteen  persons,  and  October  25,   1829,  recorded  the  names  of 

472 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  NEU'RY 


eighteen  persons  as  members  of  the  Reformed  Church  in  the 
Lutheran  church  book. 

About  November  i,  1828,  Rev.  Jacob  Martin  took  charge  of 
the  Williamsburg  pastorate,  which  consisted  of  Newry,  Franks- 
town,  Alleghany  Furnace,  Sinking  Valley,  Williamsburg  and 
Clover  Creek  congregations.  May  20,  1830,  Rev.  Martin  added 
nineteen  members.  A  new  charge  was  formed  in  the  fall  of 
1 83 1,  and  Rev.  Martin  ceased  his  labors  at  Newry. 

This  new  charge,  which  consisted  of  Newry,  Alleghany  Fur- 
nace, Salem  (Antis),  Bob's  Creek  (now  St.  Clairsville),  Potters, 
in  Morrison's  Cove  and  Greenfield,  gave  Rev.  John  Henry  Hoff- 
man a  call.  Rev.  Hoffman,  however,  was  not  able  to  secure  an 
ad  interim-  license,  and,  therefore,  could  not  accept  the  call  until 
the  meeting  of  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod  in  the  fall  of  1832. 
Rev.  Martin,  therefore,  continued  to  perform  such  ministerial 
acts  as  were  desired  in  the  meantime. 

A  collection  was  taken  for  one  Solomon  Ritz,  a  theological 
student  in  1833.  This  amounted  to  $3.79.  Whether  as  a  result 
of  this  and  other  gifts  Mr.  Ritz  was  ever  able  to  enter  the 
ministry  or  not  we  do  not  know. 

The  Sunday  school  is  first  mentioned  in  1830,  although  noth- 
ing is  known  of  its  first  officers  or  enrollment. 

The  second  church  was  built  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev. 
Hoffman.  The  lot  was  purchased  from  Francis  Cassidy,  Feb- 
ruary 4,  1834,  and  cost  $28.26.  The  trustees  were  Elijah  Feree, 
George  Weaver  and  John  Gibboney.  The  old  site  was  abandoned 
on  account  of  its  location  on  the  side  of  the  hill.  The  founda- 
tions of  the  old  church  can  still  be  traced  in  the  southeast  corner 
of  the  cemetery. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  July  4,  1834.  The  Lutheran  Ob- 
server, July  18,  1834,  gives  the  following  account: 

"On  July  4,  1834,  the  Brethren  Moser,  Martin  and  myself  (Rev. 
F.  Heyer),  attended  the  corner-stone  laying  of  a  new  Lutheran 
church  in  Newry,  Huntingdon  County,  belonging  to  the  pastoral 
care  of  Brother  Hoffman.  ...  In  addition  to  the  Bible  the 
following  instruments  of  writing  were  deposited  in  the  corner- 
stone, viz. :  Tn  the  name  of  the  Father,  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost. 
Amen.  Be  it  known  to  all  whom  it  may  concern  that  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  of  Newry  and 
others  favorable  to  the  Redeemer's  cause  have  resolved  to  build  a 

473 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


house  for  God  upon  the  following  conditions,  viz. :  This  house 
to  be  and  remain  the  property  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  con- 
gregation of  Newry.  The  present  minister  and  his  successors  in 
office  to  be  in  regular  connection  with  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  in  the  United  States,  according  to  the  constitution,  rules 
and  usages  of  the  same.  The  word  of  God  to  be  preached  pure 
and  unadulterated  as  contained  in  the  Old  and  New  Testaments, 
and  the  Holy  Sacraments  to  be  administered  according  to  the 
institution  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.  The  formula 
for  the  government  and  discipline  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  which  is  annexed  to  our  hymn  book  shall  be  the  basis 
according  to  which  the  members  of  this  church  shall  be 
governed.'  " 

This  building  was  erected  by  George  Weaver,  upon  the  same 
lot  upon  which  the  present  church  stands.  It  was  built  of  brick, 
30  by  50  feet,  and  two  stories  in  height,  and  cost  $4,000.  It  was 
dedicated  in  the  spring  of  1836.  The  ministers  present  at  the 
services  are  not  known.  According  to  the  custom  of  the  times 
it  was  built  with  galleries  on  three  sides.  These  galleries  were 
supported  by  four  handsomely  turned  posts.  The  rear  gallery 
was  built  to  receive  an  organ,  which,  however,  was  never  secured. 
The  chancel  was  enclosed  with  a  balustrade ;  entrance  to  it  was 
through  a  gate.  The  pulpit  was  raised  about  eight  feet  from 
the  floor.  It  was  large  enough  to  accommodate  three  persons, 
and  was  supported  by  two  posts.  Two  stairways  led  up  to  it. 
It  was  covered  with  green  velvet  draperies,  which,  being  stolen, 
were  replaced  with  garnet  hangings.  Light  was  furnished  by 
tallow  dips  or  candles.  This  building  was  frequently  filled  to 
overflowing.  The  people  came  from  a  distance  of  eight  or  ten 
miles  on  horseback  or  afoot.  Rev.  Hoffman  resigned  Novem- 
ber 1,  1836. 

Rev.  Charles  C.  Guenther  took  charge  of  this  pastorate  about 
December  15,  1836.  During  this  time  the  congregation  pros- 
pered greatly ;  the  communion  records  showing  an  attendance 
of  174  on  May  31,  1840.  A  collection  of  $12.50  was  taken  for 
educational  and  missionary  purposes. 

In  1839  this  charge  was  again  divided,  Newry,  Alleghany 
Furnace  and  Salem  (Antis)  forming  at  this  time  the  Newry 
charge.  Rev.  Jacob  Simon  became  pastor  of  this  charge  June  1, 
1842.  On  January  24,  1843,  a  constitution,  "best  adapted  to  its 
474 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  NEWRY 


situation  and  circumstances  and  most  consistent  with  the  spirit 
and  the  principles  of  the  New  Testament  .  .  .  and  upon  the 
broad  basis  of  these  principles  and  the  principles  laid  down  in 
the  formula  and  discipline  adopted  and  recommended  by  the 
General  Synod  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  of  the  United 
States  of  America,"  was  adopted  and  signed  by  forty-seven  male 
members  of  the  congregation. 

Difficulties,  however,  soon  arose,  both  within  the  congregation 
and  within  the  Synod,  on  account  of  the  unrestrained  "New 
Measures"  practiced  by  Rev.  Simon,  as  the  following  action  of 
Synod  indicates : 

"Report  of  committee  in  the  case  of  Rev.  J.  Simons,  Sep- 
tember, 1843,  Rev.  M.  Eyester,  chairman. 

"Your  committee  into  whose  hands  were  placed  the  notes  taken 
by  Lawyer  Banks,  of  Hollidaysburg,  in  a  certain  case  of  slander 
against  Rev.  J.  Simons,  are  happy  in  being  able,  as  the  result  of 
this  investigation,  to  exculpate  him  from  any  immoral  conduct 
implicated  in  said  notes;  but 

"Whereas,  Brother  Simons  has,  from  the  beginning  of  his 
connection  with  this  body,  been  guilty  of  deviating  from  the  dis- 
tinctive peculiarities  of  our  Church;  and 

"Whereas,  He  has  been  affectionately  admonished  by  the 
president  to  desist  and  directed  to  conform  to  the  rules  and 
regulations  of  our  Zion ;  and 

"Whereas,  He  has  still  persisted,  not  heeding  any  effort  that 
Synod  could  possibly  make  for  his  character  and  standing  as  a 
member  of  this  body ;  therefore,  compelled  by  his  Own  voluntary 
and  deliberate  determination  to  disregard  the  distinctive  peculi- 
arities of  the  Church;  be  it 

"Resolved,  That  nevertheless  the  licenses  of  Rev.  J.  Simons  be 
extended  until  April  i,  1844,  and  that  thenceforward  the  con- 
gregations comprising  the  Newry  district  be  and  are  hereby 
'  declared  vacant."     (Minutes,  p.  33.) 

Report  was  adopted  as  read.  The  charge  therefore  became 
vacant  April  1,  1844,  and  on  that  date  Rev.  William  Weaver  took 
charge.  One  writer  says :  "Rev.  Simons  had  left,  but  the  tares 
sown  remained,  and  brought  forth  their  fruit,  which  to  this  day 
have  not  entirely  died  out."  That  this  was  true  is  evident.  Although 
112  persons  communed  November  1,  1844,  by  April  1,  1845,  there 
were  only  seventy-eight  names  (thirty-four  men  and  forty-four 
women)  handed  in  by  request  of  the  council,  by  persons  who 
"considered  themselves  members  of  this  congregation."     Further 

475 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


evidence  of  this  trouble  is  found  in  the  fact  that  the  Salem 
(Antis)  and  the  Alleghany  Furnace  congregations  were  being 
served  by  Rev.  Henry  Baker  instead  of  Rev.  Weaver ;  where- 
upon the  Newry  congregation,  "feeling  that  it  was  their  duty  to 
preserve  their  congregation  from  ruin,  declared  themselves  inde- 
pendent of  the  Alleghany  Furnace  congregation  in  all  and  every 
possible  manner."  The  secession  of  the  Alleghany  congregation 
and  the  Salem  congregation  left  Newry  and  the  recently  organ- 
ized Sarah  Furnace  (Claysburg)  Church  unable  to  support  a 
pastor,  and  the  Newry  congregation  now  united  with  the  Mar- 
tinsburg  charge  by  mutual  consent. 

Another  loss  sustained  to  this  church  at  this  time  was  caused 
by  the  organization  of  a  congregation  at  Duncansville  in  1846, 
with  forty-four  charter  members,  by  Rev.  H.  Baker.  This  was 
considered  "intruding  and  injurious  to  our  congregation,"  because 
of  the  fact  that  Duncansville  is  but  two  and  a  half  miles  from 
Newry  and  the  Lutheran  people  of  that  place  were  all  members 
of  the  Newry  Church,  and  a  vigorous  protest  was  made.  This 
congregation  afterward  became  a  part  of  the  Newry  charge  and 
remained  so  till  1890.  In  the  midst  of  these  difficulties  Rev. 
Weaver  resigned,  September  1,  1846. 

Rev.  Leitzle,  of  Martinsburg,  took  charge  in  1847,  and  added 
eighteen  members.  The  highest  number  of  communicants  was 
at  this  time  again  147.     Rev.  Leitzle  resigned  April  1,  1848. 

Rev.  Eli  Schwartz  became  pastor  of  the  Martinsburg  charge 
May  14,  1848.  Although  pastor  of  a  very  large  territory  Rev. 
Schwartz  held  five  communions  by  May  14,  1850,  when  he 
resigned,  the   largest  number  present  at  any  communion  being 

Although  this  church  changed  pastors  quite  frequently,  yet 
since  the  year  18 13  it  seems  never  to  have  been  entirely  without 
pastoral  care  and  supervision  of  some  sort  for  any  great  length 
of  time.  In  fact,  where  dates  are  given,  no  vacancy  is  found  to 
have  existed  for  one  entire  year. 

September  1,  1850,  Rev.  David  Eyler  became  pastor.  He  con- 
firmed nineteen  persons,  but  was  compelled  to  resign  on  account 
of  ill  health  about  October  1,  185 1. 

Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner  became  pastor  of  the  Martinsburg 
charge  November  2,  1851,  and  served  this  congregation  till  April 
476 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  NEWRY 


i,  1864,  the  longest  pastorate  on  record. 

Upon  a  petition  of  the  joint  council  of  the  Martinsburg  charge 
in  1 85 1  for  a  division  of  this  charge,  Newry,  Claysburg  and 
Greenfield  became  one  charge  by  consent  of  Synod.  Rev.  Ficht- 
ner  became  pastor  of  this  new  charge  about  November  1,  1852. 
He  organized  the  St.  Paul's  congregation  in  1852,  and  it  became 
a  member  of  this  charge.  This  church  was  located  in  "Die 
Schweitz,"  near  Blue  Knob. 

In  1853  a  lot  was  purchased  from  Robert  McNamara  and  wife, 
as  a  location  for  a  parsonage.  This  lot  was  deeded  to  Rudolph 
Spang,  Daniel  Beigle,  Joshua  Morgan,  Abraham  Yingling,  John 
Diehl,  and  Peter  Winkler,  deacons  of  the  three  congregations 
represented.  The  parsonage  was  built  in  1854,  at  a  cost  of  about 
$1,600.  This  building  is  still  in  use  as  a  parsonage  and  is  in 
an  excellent  state  of  preservation.  Rev.  Fichtner  also  preached 
at  Roaring  Spring  in  a  schoolhouse  and  organized  a  congrega- 
tion there ;  most  of  the  charter  members  coming  from  the  Newry 
Church.  During  this  time  the  church  prospered  very  much ;  the 
communion  records  showing  an  attendance  of  224,  the  highest  on 
record  in  the  history  of  the  congregation.  Because  of  serious 
troubles  which  arose  and  charges  made  he  resigned  April  1, 
1864.  "It  is  with  deepest  regret  that  we  are  compelled  to  record 
that  this  man  took  it  into  his  head,  when  Synod  did  all  in  its 
power  to  reclaim  him,  to  defy  its  authority,  and  thereby  incurred 
his  expulsion  from  the  ministry  in  1865."     (Focht.) 

Rev.  Jacob  Frazier  became  the  next  pastor,  April  1,  1865. 
Because  of  the  unfortunate  ending  of  the  preceding  pastorate 
the  congregation  lost  many  members ;  some  even  uniting  with 
other  churches  in  other  communities,  the  whole  charge  reporting 
but  thirty-one  more  communicants  than  were  at  one  time  reported 
for  this  one  congregation.  Rev.  Frazier  resigned  September  1. 
1868. 

Rev.  M.  G.  Earhart  accepted  a  call  to  this  charge  December  1, 
1868,  and  continued  in  that  relation  till  December  1,  1870.  Dur- 
ing this  time  the  congregation  began  to  prosper  again,  there 
being  a  net  increase  in  membership  of  forty. 

After  a  very  short  vacancy  Rev.  M.  G.  Boyer  took  charge. 
January  19,  1871.  During  his  pastorate  the  present  church  was 
built.     The  corner-stone  was  laid  July  7,  1874.     Rev.  H.  Baker 

477 


XORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


preached  the  sermon.  Other  ministers,  whose  names  are  not 
given,  also  assisted  the  pastor  in  these  services.  The  church  was 
dedicated  December  16,  1874.  Rev.  H.  Baker  preached  the  dedi- 
catory sermon.  Services  were  also  held  by  the  Northeast  Con- 
ference. This  is  a  substantial  two-story  brick  structure,  38  by  55 
feet  in  dimensions,  and  cost  about  $7,000,  and  stands  to-day 
(1917),  with  very  slight  changes,  as  when  built.  It  is  worthy 
of  note  that  because  of  the  liberal  giving  of  the  members,  one  of 
whom  gave  $1,000,  and  another  who  gave  $800,  and  still  others 
who  gave  liberally,  that  the  church  was  soon  entirely  paid  for. 
The  membership  during  this  time  continued  to  increase,  and  the 
work  prospered.    Rev.  Boyer  resigned  May  1,  1875. 

Rev.  Solomon  McHenry  became  pastor  October  1,  1875.  He 
was  quite  successful  in  his  evangelistic  efforts.  As  an  evidence 
of  this  we  note  that  on  January  25,  1877,  forty-four  persons 
were  confirmed.     He  resigned  January   1,   1881. 

Rev.  John  W.  Henderson,  who  was  the  next  pastor,  April  i, 
1881,  to  March  11,  1890,  has  the  distinction  of  having  the  second 
longest  pastorate  in  this  church.  At  this  time  the  parsonage  was 
repaired,  at  a  cost  of  $500;  149  additions  were  made  to  the  mem- 
bership of  the  church.  He  was  a  fearless  preacher  of  righteous- 
ness, and  his  influence  yet  remains. 

During  the  next  pastorate  Rev.  A.  K.  Felton,  July  1,  1890,  to 
(date  unknown)  1893,  a  chapel  was  built  at  Puzzletown  for  the 
use  of  those  members  who  live  in  that  community,  many  of 
whom  live  four  to  five  miles  from  the  church  at  Newry,  that 
they  might  be  able  to  conduct  a  Sunday  school  and  have  an  occa- 
sional preaching  service  conducted  there.  There  is  now  an  active 
Sunday  school  at  work  there,  and  it  has  been  the  means  of  much 
good  to  the  church  to  which  it  belongs. 

Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz,  1893  to  1900,  is  very  favorably  remem- 
bered for  his  unusual  activity  for  a  man  of  his  advanced  years ; 
for  through  all  varieties  of  weather,  heat  or  cold,  sunshine  or 
storm,  over  roads  almost  impassable,  this  faithful  servant  of  God 
traveled.  Few  records  being  left  a  summary  of  his  work  is 
not  attempted. 

Rev.  John  W.  Hutchison  served  this  congregation  from  1900 
to  1903.  A  fine  toned  700-pound  Meneely  bell  was  purchased  at 
this  time,  at  a  cost  of  $150.  Mr.  George  M.  Robertson  and  Mr: 
478 


EVAXGELICAL  LUTHERAX,  XE1VRY 


Henry  Marble  were  the  prime  movers  in  this  work.  The  old 
belfry  being  found  unsafe  to  support  it  a  new  belfry  was  added 
to  the  rear  of  the  church,  at  a  cost  of  about  $150.  Total,  $300. 
During  1902  a  chapel  was  built  at  Dry  Run  for  Sunday  school 
purposes  for  those  who  found  it  too  inconvenient  to  attend  regu- 
larly at  Newry.  This  cost  about  $700.  Most  of  the  Lutheran 
families,  however,  have  since  removed  from  the  vicinity,  and  the 
school  is  quite  small  at  present.  There  is  reason  to  hope,  how- 
ever, that  it  will  soon  again  be  filled  and  a  great  source  of  help 
to  the  church  that  stands  sponsor  for  it. 

Rev.  Calvin  F.  Gephart  became  the  next  pastor,  June  1,  1904, 
and  continued  in  that  relation  till  December,  1909.  Much  prog- 
ress was  made  in  this  time.  The  parsonage,  which  was  again 
sadly  in  need  of  repairs,  was  made  comfortable  and  beautified 
by  placing  new  single-pane  sash  in  all  the  windows.  The  old 
front  porch  was  torn  away  and  replaced  by  a  seven-foot  porch 
extending  the  full  width  of  the  house.  A  new  zinc  roof  was  also 
placed  on  the  house,  and  the  whole  exterior  and  some  parts  of 
the  interior  repainted.  The  entire  cost  of  these  repairs  was  $640, 
of  which  Newry  congregation  paid  $390.  The  remainder  was 
paid  by  the  other  two  congregations  of  the  charge. 

The  new  hymn  books  were  introduced  during  the  years  of 
1904-1906.  The  individual  communion  service  was  first  used 
Easter  Sunday,  April  15,  1906.  The  windows  of  the  church 
being  sadly  in  need  of  repairs  it  was  decided  to  replace  them 
with  memorial  art  glass  sash.  This  was  done  at  a  cost  of  $450. 
The  two  front  basement  windows  were  reserved  for  recording 
the  names  and  the  time  of  service  of  all  former  pastors,  a  very 
beautiful  way  of  remembering  those  who  served  this  church  in 
its  long  history.  The  exterior  woodwork  and  brick  also  received 
a  needed  coat  of  paint. 

Rev.  Gephart  gives  the  following  as  a  summary  of  his  labors 
here.  Infant  baptisms,  ninety ;  additions,  136.  Money  raised :  For 
benevolence,  $i.ooo;  for  local  expenses,  $5,059.  Membership, 
170. 

Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  D.D.,  accepted  a  call  from  this  charge, 
1910,  and  remained  till  February  1,  1913.  The  congre- 
gation continued  on  the  even  tenor  of  its  way  during  this  period, 
and  the  faithful  sowing  of  Dr.  Fleck  is  attested  by  the  ingather- 

479 


NOR  THE  A  S  T  CONFERENCE 


ings  of  the  following  years. 

During  the  summer  following  Rev.  Paul  F.  Bloomhart  sup- 
plied the  congregation  very  acceptably,  and  on  November  i,  1913, 
Rev.  F.  H.  Schrader  became  pastor  and  continues  as  such  to  this 
present  time  (1917). 

During  the  summer  of  1914  cement  walks  were  laid  all  around 
the  outside  of  the  parsonage  lot,  and  concrete  steps  replaced  the 
old  wooden  steps  at  the  front  of  the  house,  at  a  cost  of  $112. 
The  fence  was  also  removed  from  the  lawn,  adding  much  to  the 
appearance  of  the  parsonage.  In  this  same  year  an  Estey  organ 
was  purchased  and  placed  in  the  auditorium.  Cost,  $140.  A 
new  furnace,  to  replace  the  two  furnaces  formerly  used,  was 
placed  in  the  basement,  at  a  cost  of  $135.  All  these  expenses 
were  promptly  paid. 

The  realization  of  the  need  for  better  accommodations  for  the 
primary  department  of  the  Sunday  school  led  to  the  excavation 
of  the  unfinished  part  of  the  basement,  for  the  use  of  this  depart- 
ment. A  concrete  floor  was  laid,  windows  were  placed  in  the 
side  and  rear  walls,  the  sides  and  ceiling  plastered  and  divided 
into  two  rooms  and  separated  from  the  main  room  by  accordion 
doors.  This  cost  $350,  and  was  all  provided  for  on  the  day  of 
dedication,  July  25,  1915. 

The  lot  of  ground  adjoining  the  church  was  purchased  from 
F.  E.  Holland  and  wife  in  this  same  year,  to  provide  a  suitable 
place  for  the  erection  of  sheds  for  the  teams  of  those  coming 
from  a  distance,  as  well  as  to  provide  room  for  a  possible  remodel- 
ing or  rebuilding  of  the  church.  The  sheds  were  built  in  1916 
and  cost  $109.93.  The  old  K.  G.  E.  Hall  being  for  sale  in  1916 
it  was  bought  by  the  congregation  for  a  parish  house.  The  par- 
sonage was  also  painted,  and  other  necessary  repairs  made  in 
the  last  year,  at  a  cost  of  $150.  This  congregation  now  owns  a 
plant  for  its  activities  worth  $7,500,  all  in  good  repair  and  well 
adapted  to  its  needs. 

While  this  old  church  has  been  so  active  in  providing  for  its 
material  welfare  she  has  not  forgotten  her  real  place  and  pur- 
pose in  this  community,  as  her  parochial  reports  for  many  years 
will  show.  The  fact  that  in  a  history  of  over  a  century  she  has 
remained  the  only  Protestant  church  in  this  village  and  com- 
munity, with  the  exception  of  the  few  years  in  which  (1825- 
480 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  NEWRY 


1828)  the  Reformed  preached  in  this  community,  is  an  abundant 
proof  of  the  ability  of  the  Lutheran  Church  to  minister  to  the 
spiritual  needs  of  any  community,  and  the  faithfulness  of  her 
pastors  in  declaring  the  whole  counsel  of  God. 

Although  she  has  given  of  her  membership  to  establish  in  whole 
or  in  part  six  congregations  (First  and  Second  Lutheran  in 
Altoona,  Claysburg,  Duncansville,  Roaring  Spring,  East  Free- 
dom and  St.  Paul's  in  the  "Schweitz")  she  has  to-day  almost 
200  members. 

The  Sunday  school  was  organized  at  least  as  early  as  1830,  in 
the  old  log  church  on  the  hill.  Little  is  preserved  of  her  history, 
however.  To-day  there  is  an  enrollment  of  200,  exclusive  of  the 
two  schools  in  the  chapels.  The  officers  at  present  are :  Super- 
intendent, George  G.  Baker ;  Assistant  Superintendent,  Blair  B. 
Baker ;  Secretary,  Miss  Esther  Moyer ;  Assistant  Secretary,  Miss 
Mary  Beegle ;  Treasurer,  Miss  Mary  Shaw ;  Organist,  Proctor 
Lykens. 

The  Young  People's  Society  of  Christian  Endeavor  was  organ- 
ized about  1890.  The  present  officers  are :  President,  Thomas 
A.  Bancroft;  Vice-President,  Rose  M.  Diehl;  Recording  Secre- 
tary, Lulu  Holland ;  Corresponding  Secretary,  Nannie  Diehl ; 
Treasurer,  Esther  Moyer;  Organist,  Proctor  Lykens.  Names  on 
roll,  forty-five. 

The  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was 
organized  in  1908,  with  twenty  members.  The  present  active 
membership  is  eight.  The  first  officers  were :  President,  Helen 
Gephart;  vice-president,  Mrs.  Ellen  Claar;  secretary,  Mary  D. 
Shaw.  Present  officers  are :  President,  Ida  Baker ;  Secretary, 
Mary  Shaw;  Treasurer,  Mrs.  Harry  Deitrick;  Vice-President, 
Mrs.  W.  J.  Shaw. 

A  Mission  Band  was  organized  in  1916,  which  gives  promise 
of  developing  a  number  of  excellent  additions  to  the  active  band 
in  the  parent  society. 

The  members  of  the  Council  at  this  time  are  as  follows : 
Elders,  William  J.  Shaw,  F.  R.  Weaver,  U.  S.  Hall;  Deacons, 
J.  C.  Diehl,  B.  B.  Baker,  D.  A.  Leighty. 

It  is  a  peculiar  coincidence  that  although  many  new  names  are 
on  the  records  now  that  were  not  found  in  the  early  history  of 
this  church  that  at  least  five  of  these  names  have  appeared  from 

481 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


sixty  to  one  hundred  years  ago. 

The  parochial  reports,  1913  to  1916,  yield  the  following  totals: 
Infant  baptisms,  thirty-six;  additions,  fifty-eight.  Money  raised: 
For  benevolence,  $1,127;  for  local  expenses,  $3,464.  M embers : 
Communicants,  198;  confirmed,  222;  baptized,  264. 

The  Evangelical  Lutheran   Church 
claysburg,  blair  county,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  formed  partly  out  of  the  old  Greenfield 
congregation  and  partly  out  of  the  Newry  congregation.  It  is 
first  mentioned  in  1847,  when  Rev.  Laitzle,  of  the  Martinsburg 
charge,  was  requested  to  supply  Sarah  Furnace,  afterwards 
changed  to  Claysburg,  when  Newry  united  with  the  Martins- 
burg charge  and  this  place  was  unprovided  for. 

In  1846  a  union  church  with  the  Reformed  people  was  built. 
This  church  was  about  30  by  45  feet,  and  cost  about  $1,000.  The 
congregation  was  not  organized  till  August  6,  1848,  when  Rev. 
Eli  Schwartz  formed  an  organization  with  sixteen  members,  as 
follows,  viz. :  Jacob  Barnhart,  George  Harker,  R.  Spang,  J.  G.  S. 
Black,  Paul  Mauk,  Henry  Walter,  Isaac  Pressler,  Sarah  Lingen- 
felter,  Mary  Lingenfelter,  Elizabeth  .Lingenfelter,  Rachel  Karn, 
Catherine  Black,  Mary  Jones.  Members  of  council  were  as  fol- 
lows :    Jacob  Barnhart,  Jacob  Filler,  John  Klotz,  Henry  Dibert. 

Rev.  Schwartz  resigned  May  14,  1849,  and  the  congregation 
had  increased  to  thirty-three. 

Rev.  David  J.  Eyler,  of  the  Martinsburg  charge,  was  the  third 
pastor  to  serve  this  congregation.  He  began  his  work  April  1, 
1850,  and  resigned  on  account  of  ill  health,  November  2.  185 1. 

By  the  division  of  the  Martinsburg  charge  Claysburg  again 
became  part  of  the  Newry  charge  in  1852.  Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner 
served  this  charge  till  March  14,  1863,  when,  though  he  continued 
pastor  of  the  Newry  charge  till  April  1,  1864,  he  ceased  to  serve 
this  congregation. 

In  this  same  year  it  became,  at  the  advice  of  Synod,  a  part  of 
the  St.  Clairsville  charge.  Rev.  J.  Zimmerman  then  took  charge 
of  these  people  till  October  24,  1864. 

After  the  resignation  of  Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner  from  the  Newry 
charge  this  congregation  again  returned  to  the  Newry  charge,  of 
482 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  CLAYS  BURG 

which  it  has  remained  a  member  until  the  present. 

It  was  served  in  turn  by  Rev.  Jacob  Frazier,  April  10,  1865,  to 
September  1,  1868;  Rev.  M.  G.  Earhart,  December  1,  1868,  to 
December  1,  1870;  Rev.  M.  G.  Boyer,  January  19,  1871,  to  May  1, 
1875;  Rev.  S.  McHenry,  October  1,  1875,  to  January  1,  1881. 

Rev.  J.  W.  Henderson  became  pastor  April,  1881.  In  the  same 
year  the  Lutheran  congregation  built  their  own  church  on  a  lot 
of  one  acre- of  ground  set  apart  for  that  by  Jacob  Barnhart,  dying 


BbRt ^ 

BR  Wj  1  j    \K-y. 

EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH,  CLAYSBURG,  PA.    BUILT   l88l — REMODELED  IQ'15 

before  the  building  of  the  church,  the  sale  was  made  by  his  heirs. 
This  lot  is  located  on  the  angle  formed  by  two  roads,  and  is  just 
across  the  public  road  from  the  site  of  the  union  church.  The 
building  committee  consisted  of  Samuel  E.  Hoenstine,  David 
Shaffer,  Jacob  Dibert,  Jacob  Snowberger.  Contractor,  Jacob 
Fries. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  October  28.  1881.  Rev.  J.  F.  Shearer, 
of  Altoona,  preached  the  sermon.  Besides  the  pastor,  Rev.  D.  L. 
Ryder,  of  Hollidaysburg,  and  Ephraim  Dutt  assisted  in  the  serv- 

483 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


ices.  It  was  dedicated  August  13,  1882.  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad, 
D.D.,  of  Philadelphia,  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  Rev. 
Rice,  of  St.  Clairsville,  read  the  Scripture  lesson ;  Rev.  D.  L. 
Ryder  offered  prayer ;  Rev.  Henderson  had  charge  of  the  liturgi- 
cal service.  The  church  is  a  two-story  frame  building,  36  by  50 
feet,  with  Gothic  stained  glass  windows,  and  cost  about  $4,000 ; 
$900  of  this  was  unprovided  for ;  but  an  effort  being  made  to 
raise  this  amount,  $826  was  subscribed  on  the  day  of  dedication. 

An  edifying  farewell  sermon  was  preached  in  the  old  Union 
Church  on  Saturday  afternoon  previous  to  the  dedication.  Sun- 
day school  was  organized  immediately  after  the  new  church 
was  finished. 

Rev.  Henderson  labored  very  successfully  in  this  congregation 
till  March  11,  1890. 

The  next  pastors  of  this  congregation  were :  Rev.  A.  K. 
Felton,  1890  to  1893;  Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz,  1893  to  1900;  Rev.  J. 
H.  Hutchinson,  1900  to  1903 ;  Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart,  June,  1904,  to 
December,  1909.  During  this  pastorate  (1905)  a  new  zinc  shingle 
roof  was  placed  upon  the  church,  the  exterior  repainted  and  the 
auditorium  repapered,  at  a  cost  of  about  $500.  At  this  time 
twenty-two  members  were  dismissed  to  form  the  new  congrega- 
tion at  King,  Bedford  County,  Pa. 

Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck  became  pastor,  1910,  and  served  until  1913. 
He  was  followed  by  Rev.  F.  H.  Schrader,  November  1,  1913. 
The  congregation  at  this  time,  feeling  the  need  of  some  alterations 
and  repairs  to  their  church,  decided  to  make  some  extensive 
changes.  In  the  winter  of  1914  and  1915  plans  for  the  erection 
of  a  tower  and  the  changing  of  the  stairways  were  adopted. 
The  contract  for  this  work  was  awarded  to  Abram  Burket  &  Son. 

The  old  corner-stone  was  removed,  but  its  contents  were  found 
to  have  been  destroyed  by  dampness.  It  was  relaid  in  the  corner 
of  the  new  tower  foundation,  June,  191 5.  Rev.  D.  P.  Draw- 
baugh,  of  the  Fourth  Lutheran  Church,  of  Altoona,  preached  the 
sermon.  The  pastor  performed  the  act  of  laying  the  corner- 
stone. Other  repairs  and  changes  made  at  this  time  were  the 
painting  and  graining  in  oak  finish  of  the  interior  woodwork, 
repapering  the  auditorium,  painting  the  exterior,  the  purchase  of 
an  800-pound  Blymyer  bell,  and  the  placing  of  leaded  art  glass 
memorial  windows;  the  total  cost  amounted  to  $1,875. 
484 


ST.  PAUL'S,  EAST  FREEDOM 


The  re-opening  services  were  held  November  14,  191 5.  Rev. 
L.  P.  Young,  missionary  superintendent,  preached  the  sermon 
and  took  charge  of  the  finances.  About  $900  was  required  and 
pledges  were  secured  for  that  amount.  The  people  are  now 
happy  in  the  possession  of  a  beautiful  and  substantial  house  of 
worship. 

The  present  members  of  the  Council  are :  Austin  Walter, 
W.  W.  Yingling,  Clayton  Walter,  Elders ;  Gilbert  Black,  William 
A.  Hoenstine,  Howard  Black,  Deacons.  Among  many  others  who 
have  given  long  service  to  this  congregation  in  its  councils  were 
Adam  Barnhart,  Adam  Black  and  J.  G.  S.  Black; 

The  congregation  now  numbers  about  sixty-five.  The  Sunday 
school  enrollment  is :  Officers  and  teachers,  nine ;  scholars, 
eighty-seven.  Plans  are  now  being  laid  for  the  remodeling  of  the 
Sunday  school  room  for  greater  efficiency. 

Claysburg  congregation  is  located  in  a  rapidly  growing  com- 
munity and  has  great  promise  of  continued  growth  and 
usefulness. 

St.  Paul's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
east  freedom,  blair  county,  pa. 

This  congregation  in  the  village  of  East  Freedom,  Pa.,  grew  out 
of  the  desire  of  a  number  of  members  of  the  Newry  congregation 
to  have  a  church  nearer  than  Newry,  which  necessitated  a  journey 
of  from  three  to  five  miles  to  attend  services.  There  also  seemed 
to  be  a  good  opening  for  a  Lutheran  Church  in  this  village. 

Accordingly,  a  meeting  was  called,  of  such  persons  as  would 
favor  the  project,  to  meet  at  the  home  of  Dr.  Appleby,  April, 
1882.  At  this  meeting,  Mr.  George  Benton  offered  a  lot  which 
was  accepted  as  a  site  for  a  church.  A  building  committee  was 
appointed  which  was  as  follows:  G.  W.  Benton,  George  Clugh 
and  Henry  Hileman.  The  size  of  the  church  was  to  be  30  by  50 
feet. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  June  24,  1882,  by  Rev.  John  Hen- 
derson, of  the  Newry  charge,  assisted  by  Rev.  E.  Dutt,  of  Mar- 
tinsburg,  who  preached  the  sermon  for  the  occasion. 

The  congregation  was  organized  October  1,  1882,  with  twenty- 
six  charter  members,  transferred  from  the  Newry  congregation 

485 


no  kThea s t  conference 


for  that  reason,  as  follows,  viz. :  George  W.  Benton,  Fred  Himes, 
Harry  Hileman,  George  Clugh,  members  of  the  church  council; 
Barbara  Benton,  Charles  W.  Benton,  Maggie  Benton,  Maggie 
Hileman,  Kate  Shelly,  Josie  Lorenz,  J.  Alice  Noffsker,  John 
Helsel,  Margaret  Helsel,  Henry  Helsel,  Jennie  Helsel,  Rachel 
Helsel,  Elizabeth  Helsel,  John  Feathers,  Elizabeth  Ruggles,  Solo- 
mon Ruggles,  Lizzie  Ott,  Andrew  Ott,  Isabel  Lingafelter,  Melissa 
Lingafelter,  Annie  Lingafelter,  Sarah  McGraw,  Mary  C.  Ruggles, 
Barbara  Hileman. 

The  church  was  dedicated  November  19,  1882.  Rev.  Prof. 
Ort,  D.D.,  president  of  Wittenberg  college,  preached  the  sermon. 
Rev.  Gruver  also  assisted  the  pastor,  Rev.  Henderson,  in  the 
services.  The  church  was  filled  to  overflowing  and  -the  people 
were  very  much  encouraged.  The  church  cost  $2,200,  and  $800 
of  this  was  raised  on  the  day  of  dedication.  Mr.  D.  K.  Ramey, 
of  Altoona,  was  present  and  assisted  by  a  gift  of  $100. 

This  congregation  was  admitted  to  membership  in  the  Alle- 
ghany Synod  and  became  a  part  of  the  Newry  charge,  and 
remains  so  to  this  present  time. 

A  Sunday  school  was  at  once  organized  with  Mr.  Crissman  as 
its  first  superintendent.  Rev.  Henderson  resigned  March  11. 
1890,  and  was  followed  by  Rev.  A.  K.  Felton,  July  1,  1890,  to 
1893. 

Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz  became  the  next  pastor  in  the  same  year 
(1893)  and  remained  till  1900. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  John  H.  Hutchinson,  extensive 
repairs  and  alterations  were  made  (1900  to  1903).  A  tower  was 
added  to  the  front  of  the  church  giving  a  much  needed  vestibule, 
a  bell  was  purchased,  a  new  roof  was  placed  on  the  church  and 
other  repairs  made  costing  $700.  Rev.  J.  J.  Hill,  of  Roaring 
Spring,  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon. 

June,  1904,  Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart  became  the  next  pastor.  Dur- 
ing this  and  the  preceding  pastorates  the  congregation  steadily 
increased  in  membership  and  justified  the  judgment  of  those  who 
founded  it  there 

In  1905  the  concrete  walks  in  front  of  the  church  were  laid 
and  the  iron  fence  erected  at  a  cost  of  $300.  Rev.  Gephart 
resigned  in  1909  and  was  followed  by  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck  in  1910. 
The  church  was  again  renovated  in  1912.  The  building  was 
4S6 


ST.  MARK'S,  KING 


repainted  within  and  without  and  beautifully  repapered.  Memo- 
rial art  glass  windows  replaced  the  old  plain  glass  windows  and 
the  house  made  beautiful  at  a  cost  of  $700.  Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor. 
D.D.,  preached  the  rededicatory  sermon  and  the  entire  cost  of 
the  improvements  were  provided  for.  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck  resigned 
February  1,  191 3. 

Rev.  F.  H.  Schrader  took  charge  November  1,  19 13.  The 
excellent  Estey  organ  was  purchased  in  the  beginning  of  the 
next  year  at  a  cost  of  $115.  The  congregation  now  has  a  beau- 
tiful property  all  in  excellent  state  of  preservation,  well  adapted 
to  its  use,  valued  at  $3,000.  The  congregation  now  has  a  com- 
municant membership  of  sixty  and  gives  promise  of  continued 
growth  and  service. 

The  present  council  is  as  follows :  M.  B.  Shade,  D.  B.  Quarry, 
Allen  Lingenf elter,  elders ;  Grant  Lingenf  elter,  A.  S.  Snowberger, 
Philip  Ott,  deacons. 

The  present  Sunday  school  enrollment  is :  Teachers  and  offi- 
cers, nineteen;  scholars,  135;  superintendent,  Allen  Lingenf  elter; 
assistant  superintendent,  D.  B.  Quarry ;  secretary,  Jennie  Benton ; 
treasurer,  D.  A.  Mauk. 

St.  Mark's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
king,  bedford  county,  pa. 

This  church  is  located  three  miles  south  of  Claysburg.  Its 
organization  was  the  outgrowth  of  a  Union  Sunday  school  which, 
from  existing  records,  was  organized  prior  to  1855,  in  Shaffer's 
schoolhouse  near  the  site  of  the  present  church  building. 

Neighboring  ministers  of  the  Reformed  and  Lutheran  churches 
preached  in  this  schoolhouse  occasionally  for  at  least  fifty  years 
before  the  organization  of  the  congregation  and  the  building  of 
the  church. 

About  1908,  under  the  leadership  of  Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart,  of  the 
Newry  charge,  steps  were  taken  in  connection  with  the  Reformed 
people  in  the  same  community  to  build  a  union  church  to  be 
called  St.  Mark's  Lutheran  and  Reformed  Church. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  May  15,  1909,  by  Rev.  C.  F.  Gep- 
hart, on  behalf  of  the  Lutheran  congregation,  and  Rev.  Hun- 
sicker,  on  behalf  of  the  Reformed  Church.  The  building  was 
dedicated  November  27,  1909,     Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart,  of  Newry, 

487 


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and  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem,  of  St.  Clairsville,  were  the  Lutheran 
ministers  present.  Rev.  A.  F.  Nacea  and  Rev.  J.  W.  Zehring 
were  the  Reformed  ministers  present. 

The  church  is  built  of  brick,  in  gothic  architecture,  36  by  50 
feet,  a  modern  two-roomed  building  and  cost  about  $6,000. 

The  organization  of  the  Lutheran  congregation  was  completed 
on  the  day  of  dedication  by  the  adoption  of  the  constitution  as 
required  by  the  discipline  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
of  the  General  Synod,  with  twenty-two  charter  members,  form- 


ST.    MARKS    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    AND    REFORMED    CHURCH,    KING,    PA. 


erly  members  of  the  Claysburg  congregation.  The  following 
were  the  members  of  the  church  council :  Elders,  William  F. 
Walter,  D.  E.  Gochnour,  D.  R.  Hoenstine;  deacons,  H.  L.  Shoe- 
maker, Ira  Hengst,  G.  L.  Fickes,  Harvey  Gochnour. 

It  was  admitted  to  the  Newry  charge  January  1,  19 10,  and 
has  been  served  by  the  pastors  of  that  charge  as  follows :  Rev. 
C.  F.  Gephart,  1909;  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  D.D.,  1910  to  1913;  Rev. 
Paul  F.  Bloomhart  (supply),  1913;  Rev.  F.  H  Schrader,  Novem- 
ber 1,  1913,  the  present  pastor. 

The   present   membership   is   thirty-five.      There   is   an   active 
Union    Sunday    school.      Money    raised    for    current    expenses 
(1916),  $225;  for  benevolence,  $72. 
488 


ST.  PAUL'S,  JUNIATA  TOWNSHIP 


Though  a  rural  congregation  its  situation  in  a  community  that 
is  near  to  a  rapidly  developing  industrial  centre  gives  promise  of 
a  continued  growth  and  prosperity. 

The  St.  Paul's  Evangelical  Lutreran  Church 
juniata  township,  blair  county,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  organized  by  Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner,  of 
the  Newry  charge.  The  corner-stone  of  this  church  was  laid 
Sunday,  September  4,  1852.  It  was  dedicated  June  12,  1863,  and 
cost  about  $700. 

This  church  was  a  one-story  frame  building,  30  by  45  feet, 
and  cost  about  $700.  In  1853  it  made  application  for  admission 
to  Synod  and  the  petition  was  granted  and  it  became  a  part  of 
the  Newry  charge. 

Rev.  Fichtner  served  this  congregation  till  1864,  when  he 
resigned  the  Newry  charge.  The  following  ministers  served  this 
congregation,  viz.:  Rev.  J.  Frazier,  April  1,  1865,  to  September 
1,  1868;  Rev.  M.  G.  Erhart,  December  1,  1868,  to  December  1, 
1870;  Rev.  M.  G.  Boyer,  January  19,  1871,  to  May  1,  1875.  On 
October  1,  1875,  Rev.  S.  McHenry  became  pastor,  but  on  account 
of  the  weakness  of  this  congregation  he  ceased  preaching  there 
in  1880.  The  members  who  remained  thereupon  were  prevailed 
upon  to  unite  with  the  German  Reformed  congregation  in  that 
community,  while  the  church  stood  unused  till  1900,  when  it 
was  torn  down  and  a  chapel  known  as  the  "Long  Memorial 
Chapel"  was  built  by  Mr.  Jerry  Long,  the  last  surviving  member 
of  the  congregation.  This  chapel,  however,  is  unused  and  stands 
a  silent  monument  to  the  Lutheran  congregation  in  that  com- 
munity. 

NEW  MILLPORT  CHARGE 

Rev.  J.  R.  Ransch,  Pastor 

The  New  Millport  or  Salem  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Church 

ferguson  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 

This  is  one  of  the  oldest  congregations  in  Clearfield  County. 

The  first  Lutheran  church  in  Clearfield  County  was  a  log  church 

and  built  by  Christian  Erhardt  in  1843,  who  also  deeded  one  acre 

489 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


of  land  for  the  church  and  graveyard.  It  stood  nearly  on  the 
ground  where  the  parsonage  of  this  charge  now  stands. 

On  June,  1847,  Rev.  Peter  P.  Lane  took  charge  of  the  Clear- 
field pastorate,  of  which  this  was  a  part,  and  resigned  about 
June  1,  1851. 

On  the  recommendation  of  the  Western  Conference,  the  presi- 
dent of  Synod  gave  ad  interim  license  to  Mr.  Christian  Diehl,  who 
took  charge  of  the  Clearfield  pastorate  about  July  1,  1852.  Dur- 
ing his  ministry  a  new  frame  church,  35  by  50  feet,  was  built. 
The  corner-stone  was  laid  in  July,  1853,  and  dedicated  on  Janu- 
ary 7,  1855,  and  cost  about  $950  {vide  Lutheran  Observer, 
January  9,  1855).     He  resigned  about  July  15,  1856. 

Rev.  William  H.  Rex,  having  received  ad  interim  license,  took 
charge  of  the  Clearfield  pastorate  on  July  15,  1856,  and  on  account 
of  ill  health  resigned  about  March  1,  1858. 

About  April  1,  1858,  Rev.  J.  J.  Stine  took  charge  of  the  Clear- 
field pastorate  (also  see  his  report  in  the  history  of  the  Clearfield 
congregation).    He  resigned  about  January  1,  1859. 

On  May  13,  1859,  Rev.  Joseph  R.  Focht,  of  York  County,  Pa., 
took  charge  of  the  Clearfield  pastorate.  He  resigned  on  Decem- 
ber 15,  1861. 

About  July  1,  1862,  Rev.  J.  H.  Bratten  took  charge  of  the 
Clearfield  pastorate.  He  resigned  about  July  15,  1864.  Synod 
now  referred  the  Clearfield  charge  to  the  Northeastern  Confer- 
ence, to  be  supplied  with  preaching. 

In  1865  a  letter  from  a  member  of  the  Clearfield  congregation 
was  sent  to  Synod,  calling  its  attention  to  a  resolution  passed  at 
its  last  meeting,  complaining  of  the  neglect  on  the  part  of  the 
Northeastern  Conference.  Synod  appointed  a  special  committee, 
which  reported  as  follows :  "That  the  congregation  composing 
the  Clearfield  charge,  with  Glasgow,  Tyrone  and  Antis,  be 
requested  to  send  each  a  lay-delegate,  and  the  ministers  of  said 
congregations,  to  confer  with  the  Rev.  A.  C.  Ehrenfeld,  at  Phil- 
ipsburg,  on  the  third  Tuesday  of  October  next,  who  shall  have 
authority  to  re-district  the  whole  field ;  that  Rev.  A.  C.  Ehrenfeld 
shall  be  reasonably  recompensed  for  his  time  and  services  out  of 
the  mission  treasury,  and  that  $300  be  appropriated  out  of  the 
mission  treasury,  to  be  divided  among  the  charges  formed,  at  the 
discretion  of  Rev.  A.  C.  Ehrenfeld,  subject  to  the  approval  of 
490 


NEW  MILPORT,  CLEARFIELD  COUNTY 

the  mission  committee"  Minutes,  p.  19,  1865).  This  was 
approved  of  the  mission  committee,  and  Glasgow,  New  Millport 
and  Bloomington  formed  the  new  mission  and  $1,500  was  appro- 
priated to  it.  Rev.  A.  R.  Height  already  serving  the  Glasgow 
congregation  was  continued  by  the  mission  committee,  taking 
charge  of  this  and  Bloomington  congregations,  or  the  Glasgow 
mission,  at  is  was  called,  about  November  1,  1865.  The  congrega- 
tion repaired  the  church  and  the  mission  bought  a  parsonage  and 
repaired  it,  which  cost  about  $500.  In  1866,  Synod  appropriated 
$100  to  this  mission.  Rev.  Height  reported  for  this  and  the 
Bloomington,  two  congregations,  twelve  infant  baptisms,  four 
additions,  one  loss,  fifty-eight  communicants,  two  prayer  meet- 
ings, two  union  Sunday  schools,  twenty-two  teachers,  152  schol- 
ars; money  raised,  $309.  He  resigned  on  November  1,  1866,  and 
moved  to  Wilmore. 

In  1867  the  mission  committee  reported  to  Synod  that  the  Glas- 
gow Mission  has  been  vacant  during  the  past  year,  and  is  still 
so.  Repeated  efforts  were  made  to  secure  a  man  for  the  place, 
but  thus  far  without  success.  Brother  Peterman,  a  zealous  mem- 
ber at  Glasgow,  has  been  conducting  religious  services  in  the 
mission,  whether  by  assuming  to  preach  or  simply  exhorting  his 
brethren,  we  have  not  learned.  We  understand  that  they  have 
paid  for  their  parsonage  and  are  willing  to  make  every  effort  to 
support  a  man  and  desire  greatly  to  be  supplied.  We  would  sug- 
gest that  the  appropriation  voted  at  our  last  meeting  be  paid  them 
as  soon  as  a  suitable  man  can  be  had  to  supply  them.  Synod  voted 
$100  to  this  mission. 

By  the  request  of  the  Northeastern  Conference,  Rev.  P.  L. 
Harrison,  of  Clearfield,  supplied  this  and  Bloomington  congrega- 
tions at  least  a  part  of  the  year,  and  added  eight  new  members  to 
this  congregation  (church  book),  but  made  no  report  to  Synod 
of  his  services. 

On  December  1,  1867,  Rev.  J.  R.  Williams  took  charge  of  the 
Glasgow  Mission,  and  moved  into  the  parsonage  at  New  Mill- 
port. His  parochial  report  is  given  in  the  history  of  the  Glasgow 
congregation.  He  resigned  on  May  I,  1869,  and  reported  the 
charge  self-sustaining. 

On  December  1,  1869,  Rev.  Abel  Thompson  took  charge  of  the 
New  Millport  pastorate.    The  second  year  he  preached  at  the  East 

491 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Ridge  congregation  as  a  station.  He  resigned  on  January  12, 
1874,  and  took  charge  of  Schellsburg  pastorate. 

Rev.  William  Tryday  took  charge  of  the  New  Millport  pastor- 
ate about  May  1,  1874.  He  died  on  January  25,  1876,  and 
the  following  obituary  notice  was  adopted  by  Synod :  "God  in 
His  inscrutable  Providence,  having  removed  from  this  world  our 
brother  and  fellow-laborer,  Rev.  William  Tryday,  a  member  of 
this  Synod,  who  died  on  January  25,  1876,  we  bow  meekly  to  the 
divine  summons,  and  take  to  heart  the  solemn  admonition.  Be 
ye  also  ready." 

"Brother  Tryday  was  an  earnest  Christian,  and  a  zealous  min- 
ister of  the  gospel.  He  was  taken  from  the  midst  of  his  labors 
here  to  his  reward  in  glory.  We  would  herewith  express  our 
condolence  with  his  bereaved  companion,  and  command  her  to 
take  the  comfort  and  care  of  her  Heavenly  Father." 

On  April  1,  1876,  Rev.  P.  B.  Shirk  took  charge  of  the  New 
Millport  pastorate.  On  account  of  ill-health  he  resigned  on 
April  1,  1881,  and  died  on  May  30,  1882,  in  the  same  room  of  the 
parsonage  in  which  his  predecessor  died. 

Synod  passed  obituary  notice :  "Since  God  in  His  all-wise 
Providence  has  seen  fit  to  remove  from  this  life  P.  B.  Shirk,  an 
esteemed  member  of  Synod,  Resolved,  1st,  That  we  recognize  in 
him  a  worthy  Christian  man  and  earnest  laborer  as  a  minister 
of  the  gospel.  2d,  That  we  are  by  his  death  admonished  to  be 
diligent  in  the  Master's  work,  because  in  the  midst  of  life  we 
are  in  death,  and  should  be  ever  ready  to  hear  also  'Well  done, 
good  and  faithful  servant.'  3d,  That  we  deeply  sympathize  with 
the  afflicted  family  in  their  bereavement,  commending  them  for 
comfort.  4th,  That  a  copy  of  these  resolutions  be  sent  to  the 
widow,  Mrs.  Shirk."  Aged  fifty-eight  years,  nine  months  and 
twenty-three  days. 

Rev.  Shirk  recommended  that  New  Millport  and  Bloomington 
should  unite  with  Clearfield,  and  Mt.  Zion  (Glasgow)  with  Bell- 
wood  and  Salem  (Antis),  which  advice  the  congregations  fol- 
lowed in  the  spring  of  1881,  and  Synod  confirmed  it.  On 
May  t,  1 88 1,  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean  took  charge  of  the  Clearfield  pas- 
torate. He  reported  for  the  New  Millport  and  Bloomington 
congregations:  two  congregations,  eleven  infant  baptisms,  thirty- 
two  additions,  eight  losses,  ninety-three  communicants,  one 
492 


NEW  MILPORT,  CLEARFIELD  COUNTY 

prayer  meeting,  two  Sunday  schools,  eighteen  teachers,  180 
scholars;  money  raised,  $1,747.75.  He  resigned  on  May  1,  1885, 
and  confined  his  labors  to  the  Clearfield  congregation. 

Rev.  George  W.  Crist  took  charge  of  the  New  Millport  pas- 
torate on  October  1,  1885,  and  organized  a  new  Lutheran  con- 
gregation at  Marron  on  April  23,  1886,  and  at  Synod  reported 
three  congregations,  and  on  January  2,  1887,  organized  a 
Lutheran  congregation  at  Mahaffey,  and  on  October  21,  1888, 
organized  a  congregation  at  Olanta,  thus  forming  a  charge  of 
five  congregations,  four  of  which  are  along  the  Beech  Creek 
Railroad.  He  might  as  well  have  reported  five  congregations 
as  four  and  one  station,  for  in  about  six  weeks  after  the  adjourn- 
ment of  Synod  organized  the  fifth  belonging  to  this  charge, 
and  can  so  be  reported  five  congregations,  seventeen  infant  bap- 
tisms, 143  additions,  thirty-three  losses,  189  communicants,  four 
Sunday  schools,  thirty-six  teachers,  2yy  scholars ;  money  raised, 
$3,200.71.  He  resigned  on  April  1,  1889,  and  took  charge  of  the 
Jennerstown  pastorate,  Somerset  County,  Pa. 

On  June  9,  Rev.  J.  P.  Schnure  took  charge  of  the  New  Mill- 
port pastorate.  The  parsonage  was  repaired  to  the  amount  of 
$100.  He  reported  five  congregations,  but  in  1890  he  omits 
Bloomington  and  reports  only  four  congregations,  twenty-three 
infant  baptisms,  forty-eight  additions,  forty-two  losses,  185  com- 
municants, three  prayer  meetings,  four  Sunday  schools,  thirty- 
six  teachers,  260  scholars ;  money  raised,  $4,492.34.  He  resigned 
on  September  1,  1890,  and  took  charge  of  the  Glasgow  pastorate. 

The  following  pastors  succeeded  to  the  field :  Rev.  H.  C. 
Salem,  May  29,  1891,  to  September  3,  1892.  He  reported  but 
two  congregations, — -Salem  (New  Millport)  and  Olanta, — Ma- 
haffey being  vacant.  Rev.  M.  O.  T.  Sahm,  April  11,  1893  to . 

He  served  Salem,  Olanta  and  Bloomington,  Olanta  and  Marron 
constituting  a  pastorate  separate  until  1895,  when  Bloomington, 
reporting  but  eight  members  in  1894,  was  dropped.  In  1896, 
he  reports  the  charge  as  Salem,  136  members,  Olanta,  fifteen 
members,  and  Marron,  thirty  members,  Mahaffey  being  supplied 
by  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell,  with  forty-two  members.  In  1896  the  charge 
is  Salem  and  Marron.  He  resigned  December  1,  1897.  Rev. 
I.  P.  Hawkins,  August,  1898,  to  August,  1903.  He  served 
Salem,  Olanta,  Bloomington  and  Marron,  reporting  members  as 

493 


XORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


follows :    144,  sixteen,  seven,  twenty-five,  respectively.     Rev.  J. 

E.  Zerger,  November,   1903,  to  October,   1904.     Bloomington  is 

dropped  from  the  parochial  reports  henceforth.     Rev.  G.  C.  H. 

Haskarl,  December,   1905,  to  July,   1906.     Rev.  W.  D.   Nicoll, 

April,  1907,  to  April,  1908.     Rev.  M.  A.  Spotts  (supply),  1909. 

Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,   1912  to  October,   1913.     Rev.  J.  R.  Rausch, 

October  1,  19 15,  to  — 

The  congregation  in  New  Millport  has  the  honor  and  unusual 

distinction  of  having   furnished  a  missionary  to  Africa,  in  the 

person  of  Rev.  Jacob  Hiram  Straw,  who  died  on  the  African 

field. 

The  St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

marron,  ferguson  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 

About  the  year  1868  three  members  of  the  Glasgow  congre- 
gation moved  into  Marron  vicinity.  The  Baptists  at  that  time 
held  the  only  services  in  this  vicinity.  The  old  Zion  Baptist 
Church  stood  nearly  half  way  between  Ansonville  and  Marron 
village,  and  no  longer  served  their  purpose.  Hence,  they  erected 
a  church  at  Ansonville  and  in  a  few  years  afterward  another  at 
Marron  village,  with  the  special  understanding  that  on  account 
of  the  special  assistance  of  many  members  of  other  denomina- 
tions and  those  not  belonging  to  any  church,  the  house  of  worship 
should  always  be  for  other  church  denominations  when  the  Bap- 
tists did  not  occupy  it.  Among  those  who  assisted  them  most 
was  C.  J.  Shoff,  one  of  the  three  Lutherans  who  moved  from 
the  Glasgow  congregation  into  this  vicinity,  who  also  served  on 
the  building  committee. 

The  Lutheran  ministers  preaching  at  New  Millport,  sometimes 
only  occasionally  and  at  other  times  more  regularly,  for  some 
years  preached  here.  Rev.  Abel  Thompson  preached  regularly 
for  sometime  and  held  a  series  of  meetings  during  the  winter  of 
1870  in  the  schoolhouse.  At  this  meeting  a  goodly  number  of 
those  belonging  to  no  denomination  professed  faith  in  Jesus 
Christ  and  true  repentance  towards  God,  and  desired  to  unite 
with  the  Lutheran  Church,  but  the  Baptists  proselyted  them  over 
to  their  church,  and  Rev.  Thompson  failed  to  effect  an  organiza- 
tion. Revs.  Tryday  and  Shirk  occasionally  preached  at  Marron. 
When  Rev.  G.  W.  Crist  became  pastor  of  the  New  Millport 
charge,  it  was  agreed  that  he  should  devote  three-eighths  of  his 
494 


OLANTA,  CLEARFIELD  COUNTY 


time  to  Marron  and  the  surrounding  community,  where  no 
Lutheran  congregations  had  been  organized.  In  the  first  week 
of  November,  1885,  Rev.  Crist  visited  Marron  and  preached  for 
them  regularly,  and  in  January,  1886,  held  a  series  of  meetings 
which  resulted  in  the  organization  of  an  Evangelical  Lutheran 
congregation,  on  April  23,  1886,  with  thirty  charter  members, 
and  adopted  a  constitution  and  elected  its  officers  in  August  of 
the  same  year.  A  house  of  worship  was  needed.  Mr.  Shoff 
donated  a  lot  of  ground  and  the  members  began  the  work  in 
earnest.  The  corner-stone  of  the  church  was  laid  on  May  3,  1887. 
The  pastor  was  assisted  on  the  occasion  by  Rev.  Samuel  J.  Taylor, 
of  Williamsburg,  Blair  County,  Pa.,  who  preached  the  sermon 
for  the  occasion.  On  September  25,  1887,  the  church  was  dedi- 
cated. The  pastor  was  assisted  by  Revs.  W.  W.  Criley  and  Isaac 
Krider  and  $500  was  raised  on  the  day  of  dedication  and  the 
church  was  dedicated  free  of  debt.  The  building  is  frame,  33  by 
46  feet,  with  recess  for  pulpit,  the  aisles  and  chancel  carpeted. 
The  church  is  surmounted  by  a  spire  70  feet  high  and  cost  about 
$2,200. 

Rev.  Crist's  parochial  report  of  this  congregation  is  contained 
in  the  history  of  the  New  Millport  congregation.  He  resigned 
on  April  1,  1889. 

Rev.  J.  P.  Shnure  took  charge  of  the  New  Millport  pastorate 
on  June  9,  1889.  His  parochial  report  is  also  contained  in  the 
history  of  the  New  Millport  congregation.  He  resigned  on  Sep- 
tember 1,  1890. 

Licentiate  George  W.  Styer,  Selinsgrove  (supply),  1892- 1893, 
Mahaffey  and  Marron.  Rev.  M.  O.  T.  Sahm,  1896  to  December 
1.  1897.    For  the  list  of  pastors  later,  see  Salem  congregation. 

The  Olanta  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
olanta,  pike  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 
This  congregation  is  partly  formed  out  of  the  Bloomington 
congregation,  on  the  railroad  and  about  two  miles  from  Bloom- 
ington. Soon  after  Rev.  Crist  had  taken  charge  of  the  New 
Millport  pastorate,  he  began  to  preach  at  Olanta  in  a  hall,  and 
as  there  was  no  other  preaching  in  the  place,  there  was  a  good 
opening  for  a  Lutheran  church.  Things  thus  continued  for 
about  six  months,  when  a  move  was  made  to  build  a  Lutheran 

495 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Church,  and  on  July  10,  1887,  the  corner-stone  was  laid.  The 
pastor  was  assisted  on  the  occasion  by  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean,  of  Clear- 
field, who  preached  the  sermon  for  the  occasion.  It  was  dedi- 
cated on  October  21,  1888,  to  the  service  of  the  Triune  God. 
This  church  is  a  frame  building,  36  by  50  feet  in  the  main,  with 
pulpit  recess,  ante-room  and  tower.  It  cost  $2,500,  and  is  well 
furnished.  About  $650  was  raised  on  the  day  of  dedication. 
Rev.  A.  K.  Felton,  of  Philipsburg,  Pa.,  assisted  the  pastor  in  this 
dedication  feast,  and  preached  the  sermon.  The  lots  of  ground 
were  presented  to  the  congregation  and  the  church  was  dedi- 
cated free  of  debt.  Rev.  Crist  now  organized  the  congregation 
with  twenty-three  charter  members,  and  before  he  resigned  it 
had  increased  to  thirty-nine  members,  and  has  almost  entirely 
absorbed  (indeed,  so  much  so  that  Rev.  Schnure  did  not  report 
Bloomington  in  his  parochial  report  in  1890)  the.  Bloomington 
congregation. 

Rev.  Crist's  parochial  report  of  this  congregation  is  included 
in  the  history  of  the  New  Millport  congregation.  He  resigned 
on  April  1,  1889. 

Rev.  J.  P.  Schnure  took  charge  of  the  New  Millport  pastorate 
on  June  9,  1889.  His  parochial  report  is  also  included  in  the 
history  of  the  New  Millport  congregation.  He  resigned  on 
September  1,  1890. 

On  July  16,  1916,  the  Olanta  congregation  dedicated  a  new 
church  bell. 

This  congregation  has  always  been  a  part  of  the  New  Mill- 
port charge.  For  complete  list  of  pastors,  see  under  Salem 
congregation. 

[Above  sketches  are  largely  from  the  Focht  MS.  history. — Ed.] 

Additional  Historical  Data  of  New  Millport  Charge, 

Clearfield  County,  Pa. 

By  Rev.  J.  R.  Rausch,  Pastor 

Rev.  M.  O.  T.  Sahm  took  pastoral  charge  of  Salem  Lutheran 
Church,  April  1,  1893.  During  the  summer  of  1893  he  made  a 
thorough  canvass  of  the  congregation  to  secure  funds  for  the 
building  of  the  new  Gothic  church.  Meeting  with  what  was 
deemed  a  favorable  response,  the  building  committee  (consisting 
of  the  following  persons :  Jacob  Arnold,  President,  Samuel 
496 


NEW  MILPORT,  CLEARFIELD   COUNTY 

Tobias,  Alvin  Erhard,  Robert  P.  Erhard  and  M.  O.  T.  Sahm), 
concluded  it  advisable  to  lay  plans,  and  collected  material  for 
the  erection  of  the  new  church.  In  the  Spring  of  1894  the  com- 
mittee purchased  35,000  red  bricks  and  secured  the  stones,  and 
during  the  Summer  work  was  begun.  On  September  25,  the 
corner-stone  was  laid  with  the  usual  solemn  and  appropriate  serv- 
ices by  the  pastor.  Preaching  the  previous  evening  by  Rev.  D. 
B.  Treibley,  of  Clearfield.  On  September  25,  at  1.30  p.m.,  the 
corner-stone  sermon  was  delivered  by  Rev.  E.  D.  Weigle,  D.D., 
of  the  First  Church,  of  Altoona,  who  also  solicited  the  funds, 
amounting  to  $212,  all  that  was  asked  for  at  the  time. 

Owing  to  the  exceeding  stringency  of  the  times  and  a  serious 
strike  occurring  among  the  miners,  the  completion  of  the  church 
was  delayed  for  two  years.  But  on  October  25,  1896,  the  feast 
of  dedication  was  observed.  The  day  was  a  bright  and  delightful 
one,  and  the  church  was  packed  with  an  enthusiastic  audience. 
The  dedication  sermon  was  delivered  by  Rev.  H.  L.  Baugher, 
D.D.,  president  of  General  Synod,  and  financial  solicitation 
under  Rev.  J.  F.  Hartmann,  D.D.,  president  of  Alleghany  Synod, 
who  also  preached  in  the  evening.  The  entire  amount  raised 
during  the  day  was  $1,850.  In  November  of  the  same  year  the 
Northeast  Conference  held  its  sessions  in  this  church.  The  entire 
cost  of  the  new  church,  which  now  stands  a  monument  of  zeal 
and  untiring  energy  on  the  part  of  pastor  and  people,  was  $7,000. 

During  the  five  years  of  this  pastorate,  eighteen  communion 
services  were  held;  at  one  time  as  high  as  140  communed. 

During  this  pastorate,  105  were  received  into  the  church,  the 
largest  number  of  any  pastoral  supervision  during  her  history. 

The  contributions  to  all  objects  averaged  $2,000  per  year, 
which  was  also  unprecedented  in  her  history. 

This  oversight  of  the  field  was  also  one  amongst  the  longest 
of  pastoral  care,  being  five  years,  only  two  others  being  of  equal 
length,  viz. :  Rev.  P.  P.  Lane  and  Rev.  P.  B.  Shirk. 

Rev.  I.  P.  Hawkins  began  as  pastor  of  this  charge  August  14, 
1898,  serving  New  Millport,  Marron,  Olanta  and  Bloomington. 
During  his  pastorate  the  remaining  debt  of  $1,200  was  wiped 
out,  and  on  December  1,  1899,  the  last  note  was  paid  and  burned. 
While  here,  Rev.  Hawkins'  wife  died.  She  is  laid  to  rest  in  the 
cemetery  opposite  the  parsonage.    On  October  1,  1903,  Rev.  I.  P. 

497 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Hawkins  moved  away  from  New  Millport. 

After  being  vacant  for  nearly  three  years,  the  congregation, 
on  the  last  Sunday  of  September,  191 5,  elected  Rev.  J.  R.  Rausch 
as  pastor  of  this  charge,  and  he  began  his  work  immediately, 
and  is  serving  at  the  time  of  this  writing. 

This  pastorate,  the  history  of  which  is  given  above,  and 
which  is  copied  from  the  church  record,  marks  the  height  of 
prosperity  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  [Salem]  Church,  of 
New  Millport.  A  gradual  but  constant  loss  of  members  by  death 
or  by  moving  away  to  other  localities,  begins  from  this  time  on. 
Bloomington  has  lost  all  of  its  members  these  many  years  ago, 
and  only  the  empty  church  building  there  reminds  of  the  past. 
In  Marron,  where  at  one  time  over  100  members  were  recorded, 
only  nine  are  left;  the  others  have  died  or  moved  away,  and  no 
chance  of  securing  others.  Internal  troubles  have  greatly  hin- 
dered the  growth  of  the  Olanta  congregation,  where  also  many 
members  have  moved  away  to  other  sections  of  the  country. 
In  New  Millport  there  are  only  thirty-two  members  left.  Many 
of  the  old  members  were  laid  to  their  last  rest  in  the  cemetery, 
many  more  having  moved  away  to  Altoona,  Pa.,  where  there  is 
quite  a  colony  of  New  Millport  people ;  Scalp  Level  and  Wind- 
ber,  Pa.,  have  also  received  members  from  here.  After  once  old 
troubles  and  their  causes  have  been  done  away  with,  Olanta  and 
New  Millport  have  a  chance  for  some  growth  by  patient  and 
faithful  labor,  provided  the  people  can  be  aroused. 

The  Former  East  Ridge  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Congregation 

burnside  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 

Written  by  Rev.  J.  R.  Focht 

Among  the  earliest  settlers  in  the  southwestern  corner  of 
Clearfield  County  were  several  Lutheran  families.  There  being 
no  house  for  worship  in  the  community,  these  men  resolved  to 
build  a  church,  although  they  had  no  preacher,  hoping  that  God 
would  supply  them  with  a  pastor.  Mr.  John  Meyer  gave  one 
acre  of  cleared  land,  beautifully  situated  on  a  public  road,  for  a 
church  and  graveyard.  This  is  near  the  border  of  Cambria 
County,  and  not  far  from  the  county  line  of  Indiana.  The  land 
498 


EAST  RIDGE,  CLEARFIELD   COUNTY 


was  deeded  to  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  and  "Presbyterian" 
Churches,  that  is,  German  Reformed,  as  Rev.  Barnes  or  Barnitz, 
of  the  German  Reformed  denomination,  preached  through  those 
parts,  and  in  the  deeds  throughout  Somerset  and  Bedford  Coun- 
ties almost  invariably  they  are  called  Presbyterians.  The  house 
to  be  erected  on  this  lot  was  to  be  property  of  these  two  denomi- 
nations jointly.  The  erection  of  the  church  was  commenced, 
and  in  the  meantime  the  "Presbyterians"  resolved  to  build  a 
church  in  the  town  of  Cherry  Tree,  and  therefore  withdrew  their 
aid  from  the  enterprise  at  East  Ridge,  thus  leaving  a  few 
Lutherans  there  to  struggle  for  themselves.  At  the  same  time 
with  their  effort  to  build  a  church,  they  also  put  forth  their 
best  endeavors  to  obtain  a  minister.  Rev.  P.  Sahm  was  then 
pastor  at  Indiana,  about  twenty-five  miles  off,  and  to  him  they 
appealed.  He  sent  them  Mr.  Christian  A.  Fetzer,  one  of  his 
students,  who  held  meetings  among  these  people  occasionally, 
catechized  the  young  people,  and  rendered  himself  useful  in  pre- 
paring the  way  for  the  organization  of  a  Lutheran  congregation. 
When  the  proper  time  seemed  to  have  come,  Rev.  Sahm  visited 
them  in  person,  and  organized  a  congregation,  confirmed  a  num- 
ber of  catechumens,  and  administered  the  Lord's  Supper.  This 
took  place  on  August  5,  1855,  the  first  date  we  find  in  the  church 
book.  Including  those  first  confirmed,  twenty  had  their  names 
recorded  as  members  of  this  organization.  He  also  baptized 
several  children. 

In  1855,  letters  were  sent  to  Synod  by  the  East  Ridge  congre- 
gation and  Butersbach  settlement  in  Indiana  County,  soliciting 
the  labors  of  a  stated  minister  to  labor  among  them,  and  the 
Cherry  Tree  Mission  was  formed  by  adding  Glasgow  settlement 
to  it.  Rev.  Fetzer  preached  also  at  another  point,  probably  Tay- 
lorville.  Synod  appropriated  $50  to  this  mission.  Rev.  Fetzer 
was  licensed  at  this  meeting  of  Synod,  and  appointed  to  the 
Cherry  Tree  Mission,  and  at  once  took  charge  of  it.  Rev. 
Fetzer  was  beloved  by  the  people  and  useful  here.  In  1856, 
Synod  appropriated  $100  to  this  mission.  By  permission  of  the 
missionary  committee  of  Synod,  a  mutual  exchange  by  Rev. 
Fetzer  and  Rev.  P.  S.  Nellis,  of  the  Karthaus  Mission,  was 
made.  Rev.  Fetzer  resigned  the  Cherry  Tree  Mission,  and  Rev. 
Nellis  did  the  same  in  August,  1857,  date  unknown.     Rev.  Fetzer 

499 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


reported  to  Synod  thirty-three  infant  baptisms,  twenty-five  addi- 
tions, three  losses,  ninety-five  communicants,  three  prayer  meet- 
ings, three  Sunday  schools,  twenty-four  teachers,  ioo  scholars ; 
money  raised,  $161. 

Rev.  Nellis  took  charge  of  the  Cherry  Tree  Mission  in  August, 
1857.  In  the  same  year  Synod  passed  the  following  resolution : 
"That  Brother  Nellis  visit  certain  congregations,  in  order  to  see 
whether,  by  serving  them,  he  can  gain  a  competent  support,  and 
if  he  does  not  succeed  in  obtaining  a  competency,  he  shall  have 
appropriated  to  him  $50  from  the  missionary  funds."  On 
July  11,  1858,  he  resigned  the  Glasgow  congregation.  The  presi- 
dent, in  his  report  in  1858,  says,  "Brother  P.  Nellis  also  informed 
me  that  new  doors  of  usefulness  are  open  for  him,  and  that  at 
present  there  is  more  encouragement  to  labor  in  the  Cherry  Tree 
than  formerly,  and  by  and  by  it  will  make  an  important  pas- 
torate" (p.  7).  Fifty  dollars  was  again  appropriated  to  the 
Cherry  Tree  Mission,  provided  the  state  of  the  funds  admits  it 
(p.  24).  In  1859,  Rev.  P.  S.  Nellis  was  dismissed  to  the 
Synod  of  Northern  Indiana,  but  the  president's  report  is  as  date- 
less and  nameless  as  the  church  book  above  mentioned.  He  also 
mentions  that  a  part  of  the  Cherry  Tree  Mission  is  vacant. 
Probably  he  resigned  at  the  end  of  his  second  year,  in  August, 
1859,  and  makes  three  reports.  In  1857  ne  reports  three  con- 
gregations, seventy-five  communicants,  three  Sunday  schools, 
three  prayer  meetings;  money  raised,  $11.  In  1858  and  1859 
he  reports  five  congregations,  sixteen  infant  baptisms,  eight  addi- 
tions, two  losses,  120  communicants,  three  prayer  meetings,  three 
Sunday    schools,    seven   teachers,   fifty    scholars;    money   raised, 

$17-35- 

About  March   1,   i860,  Rev.  H.  Gathers  took  charge  of  the 

Cherry  Tree  pastorate,  for  it  received  no  aid  from  the  mission- 
ary society  at  this  time.  He  also  reports,  in  i860,  three  congre- 
gations, eleven  infant  baptisms,  six  additions,  sixty-four  com- 
municants, one  prayer  meeting,  two  Sunday  schools,  nineteen 
teachers,  100  scholars ;  money  raised,  $5.59.  In  1861  he  reported 
five  congregations,  sixteen  infant  baptisms,  thirty-three  additions, 
one  loss,  two  prayer  meetings,  one  Sunday  school,  eight  teachers, 
sixty  scholars;  money  raised,  $15.93.  He  resigned  in  1863,  but 
what  month  is  unknown.  This  congregation  has  been  left  with- 
500 


EAST  RIDGE,  CLEARFIELD  COUNTY 


out  a  minister  up  to  the  present  time  in  this  deplorable  condi- 
tion. During  the  summer  of  1863,  Rev.  A.  R.  Height,  to  whom 
we  are  almost  entirely  indebted  for  our  history  of  this  congre- 
gation, visited  this  congregation  for  six  or  eight  weeks,  and 
administered  the  Lord's  Supper  to  them. 

As  to  the  church  enterprise,  it  proceeded  so  far  at  once  that 
meetings  could  be  held  in  it.  All  was  done  except  plastering  it 
within,  and  painting  the  seats  and  pulpit.  In  this  unfinished 
condition  it  stood  till  recently.  In  the  spring  of  1863,  a  preacher 
of  the  United  Brethren  Church  induced  the  few  Lutherans  yet 
left  there  to  enter  into  a  written  agreement  with  him,  according 
to  which  the  United  Brethren  were  to  finish  the  house,  and  to 
have  not  only  the  use  of  the  church,  but  a  claim  upon  the  prop- 
erty. This  was  a  disgraceful  transaction.  By  a  little  energy  the 
Lutherans  could  have  finished  it  themselves,  because  not  much 
was  wanting.  But  the  Brethren  were  wiser  than  our  people,  and 
the  day  is  now  lost.  Notice  was  given  that  this  church,  now 
finished,  was  to  be  dedicated.  The  writer  (Rev.  A.  R.  Height), 
hearing  of  this,  determined  to  do  his  utmost  to  save  the  Lutheran 
interest  there.  Accordingly,  having  obtained  a  promise  from 
Rev.  J.  S.  Numen  to  fill  his  pulpit  on  that  day,  he  went  to  East 
Ridge  to  attend  to  the  consecration  of  the  church  there.  We 
found  matters  in  a  state  of  confusion.  The  United  Brethren 
in  Christ  claimed  the  privilege  of  consecrating  the  church,  of 
owning  part  of  the  property,  of  having  one  of  three  trustees  to 
whom  the  land  is  deeded,  and  of  having  the  use  of  the  house ; 
in  all  of  which  we  defeated  them.  Planting  ourselves  upon  the 
deed,  we  contended  for  its  stipulations,  and  secured  their  assent 
to  our  interests.  The  deed  is  made  to  three  Lutheran  trustees 
and  their  successors,  who  hold  the  property  in  trust  for  the  use 
of  the  Lutheran  and  "Presbyterian"  Churches. 

The  writer  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon  and  consecrated 
the  church  according  to  Lutheran  usage,  on  September  18,  1864, 
in  the  presence  of  a  crowded  assembly.  It  was  consecrated  "The 
East   Ridge   Evangelical    Lutheran   and    Presbyterian    Church." 

The  United  Brethren  having  resigned  their  claim  to  the  prop- 
erty, of  course  they  could  not  have  a  trustee,  and  an  appoint- 
ment was  made  for  an  election  to  fill  the  board  of  trustees  by 
those  concerned.     To  the  United  Brethren  is  secured  the  right 

501 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


to  have  at  least  one-third  of  the  time,  the  perpetual  use  of  the 
house  during  this  time,  and  an  extra  trustee  to  guard  this  right. 
This  is  all.  But  this  is  too  much,  and  we  are  censurable  that 
they  have  so  much.  They  have  only  two  male  members  in  that 
community  (in  1864)  and  we  feel  confident  if  we  had  a  good 
Lutheran  minister  there  we  Would  have  nothing  to  fear.  But  if 
the  field  is  suffered  to  lie  neglected  for  several  years,  our  interest 
will  be  lost.  [Since  the  above  was  written,  in  1864,  no  Lutheran 
minister  served  there,  and  now  (1890)  all  is  lost.] 

The  Former  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 
of  bloomington,  pike  township,  clearfield  county,  pa. 

The  principal  original  members  of  this  congregation  belonged 
to  the  Salem  (New  Millport)  congregation,  about  four  or  more 
miles  distant. 

Rev.  P.  P.  Lane  and  his  successors  occasionally  preached  at 
Long's  schoolhouse.  When,  in  1859,  Rev.  Joseph  R.  Focht  took 
charge  of  the  Clearfield  pastorate,  he  began  to  preach  regularly 
at  Long's  schoolhouse,  and  May  23,  i860,  he  organized  a  con- 
gregation with  twenty-one  charter  members  in  the  schoolhouse, 
by  adopting  a  constitution  and  electing  the  proper  officers,  and 
by  July  1  had  $400  subscribed  to  build  a  church.  The  subscrip- 
tion was  continued  and  a  lot  of  ground  secured  by  deed,  from 
Michael  Wise.  In  the  spring  of  1861  the  foundation  wall  was 
built  and  nearly  all  the  lumber  was  on  the  ground.  The  church 
is  38  by  54  feet,  and  the  corner-stone  was  to  be  laid,  but  in  con- 
sequence of  continued  heavy  rains  and  a  high  flood  it  was  post- 
poned. The  war  excitement  became  the  all-absorbing  subject  of 
conversation  and  interest.  The  lumber  run  down  the  river  could 
not  be  sold  on  account  of  so  many  banks  becoming  bankrupt. 
The  lumber  men  came  home  without  money  to  pay  off  their 
hands  and  a  general  panic  set  in.  On  December  13,  Rev.  Focht 
resigned  and  moved  to  Baltimore   County,   Md. 

As  this  congregation  always  belonged  to  the  New  Millport 
congregation,  the  same  ministers  preached  in  both,  and  the  paro- 
chial report  of  each  minister  to  1864  is  given  in  the  history 
of  the  Clearfield  congregation.  And  from  that  year  in  the  his- 
tory of  the  Mt.  Zion  (Glasgow)  congregation  to  the  year  1881 ; 
502 


THE  FORMER  EVANGELICAL,  BLOOMINGTON 

from  that  to  the  present  time,  in  the  history  of  the  New  Mill- 
port congregation. 

Later  pastors  were  Rev.  J.  H.  Bratten,  1863  to  1864;  Rev. 
A.  R.  Height,  November,  1864,  to  November,  1865 ;  Rev.  P.  L. 
Harrison,  supply,  for  six  months,  1867;  Rev.  J.  R.  Williams, 
December,  1867,  to  May,  1869. 

Sunday,  June  21,  found  the  Luthern  ministers  of  Clearfield 
County,  Pa.,  all  assembled  in  Bloomington,  to  take  part  in  the 
dedication  of  a  new  church.  It  was  a  most  pleasant  meeting,  one 
long  to  be  remembered  by  all  who  took  part  in  it.  The  building 
is  38  by  50  feet,  is  tastefully  painted,  beautifully  situated,  on  the 
edge  of  a  grove  and  surrounded  by  a  neat  white  fence.  In  fact, 
it  fills  our  ideal  of  a  country  church.  The  cost  of  the  building 
was  about  $2,000.  The  Lutherans  of  Bloomington,  though  not 
numerous  or  wealthy,  are  a  working,  energetic  people.  Though 
much  neglected,  and  in  times  past  often  without  a  pastor,  they 
have  not  only  remained  intact,  but  have  also  increased  in  num- 
bers. They  commenced  their  church  during  war  times  and  under 
most  adverse  circumstances,  but  they  have  overcome  all  obstacles 
and  may  now  look  with  becoming  pride  upon  their  beautiful  little 
house  of  worship,  an  enduring  evidence  of  their  self-denial, 
liberality  and  perseverance.  The  ladies  furnished  and  trimmed 
the  interior.  Much  credit  is  due  to  Brother  J.  R.  Williams,  who 
has  been  their  pastor  for  some  months  back.  He  has  infused  a 
new  life  into  the  charge.  Pastor  and  people  all  speak  hopefully 
of  the  future. 

Rev.  C.  A.  Nixdorf,  of  Clearfield,  preached  the  dedicatory 
sermon  from  Psalm  132:  3-5.  It  was  fully  equal  to  the  occasion, 
and  rarely  have  we  listened  to  a  better  or  more  appropriate  dis- 
course. After  the  sermon,  Brother  P.  L.  Harrison  stated  to  the 
congregation  that  there  was  still  a  debt  of  over  $750  on  the 
building,  and  that  it  was  desirable  that  the  means  be  furnished 
to  liquidate  it  before  the  church  be  dedicated.  That  they  could 
not  well  give  to  the  Lord  that  which  they  did  not  own.  They 
responded  nobly  to  his  call.  In  a  short  time  $947.13  was  raised. 
When  the  result  was  announced  it  made  every  heart  bound  with 
joy.  The  church  was  then  dedicated  according  to  the  formula 
of  the  General  Synod's  Liturgy.  We  are  looking  for  brighter 
days  in  the  Lutheran  Church  here  in  Clearfield.  If  cultivated 
properly,  it  is  a  field  of  much  promise. 

Samuel  Stouffer, 

Luthersburg,  Pa.,  June  30,  1868. 

— From  the  Lutheran  Observer. 

503 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


LATER  PASTORS 

Rev.  Abel  Thompson,  of  New  Millport,  1870  to  1873.  Rev. 
William  Tryday,  from  about  May,  1874;  died  on  January  25, 
1876.  Rev.  Peter  B.  Shirk,  from  April  1,  1876,  to  April  1,  1881  ; 
died  in  1882.  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean,  from  May  1,  1881,  to  May  1, 
1885.  Rev.  George  W.  Crist,  from  October  1  to  April  1,  1889. 
Rev.  J.  P.  Schnure,  from  June  9,  1889,  to  September  1,   1890. 

On  July  2,  1893,  this  church  was  improved  to  the  extent  of 
$316  and  rededicated. 


FIRST  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

PHILIPSBURG,    PA. 

Rev.  Earl  J.  Bowman,  Pastor 

The  history  of  organized  Lutheranism  in  Philipsburg  dates 
from  1882.  The  first  sermon  preached  in  the  town  by  a  Lutheran 
clergyman  was  delivered  by  Rev.  Charles  L.  Streamer,  then 
pastor  at  Blairsville,  in  1879,  when  a  preliminary  canvass  was 
made.  In  July,  1882,  Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick,  of  Tyrone,  and  Wil- 
liam Miller,  made  another  canvass.  At  this  time  the  attention 
of  Rev.  D.  L.  Ryder,  of  Hollidaysburg,  then  president  of  the 
Alleghany  Synod,  was  called  to  the  prospects  here  for  a  church. 
August  20,  1882,  Rev.  Ryder  preached  in  the  old  Union  Church 
at  Philipsburg,  and  that  same  day  the  congregation  was  organ- 
ized with  twelve  members.  The  church  record  shows  these 
names :  Edwin  Tyson,  William  Miller,  Mary  E.  Miller,  Hiram 
Osman,  Elizabeth  Osman,  Eliza  Mockle,  A.  R.  Feistle,  Annie  R. 
Feistle,  Mamie  Feistle,  Joseph  C.  Streamer,  Mrs.  Peter  Smith, 
W.  H.  Barlow. 

The  council  was  elected  as  follows :  Elders,  Edwin  Tyson, 
W.  H.  Barlow;  deacons,  William  Miller,  Joseph  C.  Streamer, 
Joseph  Favorite. 

The  name  of  Joseph  Favorite  does  not  appear  on  the  roll  of 
members  until  April  8,  1883 ;  then  he  was  elected  on  the  first 
council.  On  different  occasions  Rev.  Isaac  Krider  preached  to 
the  little  band,  until  it  was  found  that  the  Moshannon  Creek  was 
the  boundary  between  the  Alleghany  and  Central  Pennsylvania 
Synods.  When  this  discovery  was  made  the  church  was  trans- 
ferred to  the  Central  Pennsylvania  Synod.  It  was  again 
.504 


FIRST,   PHILIPSBURG 


transferred  to  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  1901. 

The  first  pastor  was  Rev.  George  W.  Crist,  who  served  from 
December  1,  1882,  till  June  1,  1885,  during  which  time  he 
increased  the  membership  to  thirty-six.  From  the  latter  date 
until  April  1,  1886,  the  pulpit  was  vacant,  when  Rev.  A.  K. 
Felton  became  pastor.  During  his  pastorate  the  present  church 
edifice  was  erected,  at  a  cost  of  $6,500.  The  corner-stone  was 
laid  August  14,  1887,  the  pastor  being  assisted  by  Rev.  J.  C. 
Zimmerman,  secretary  of  the  Board  of  Church  Extension,  who 
preached  the  sermon  of  the  day.  The  church  was  dedicated 
November  18,  1888,  by  Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  Philadelphia, 
assisted  by  the  pastor  and  the  first  pastor,  Rev.  Crist.  Rev. 
Felton  was  the  architect  of  the  building,  and  so  well  did  pastor 
and  people  labor,  that  by  April  1,  1890,  when  Rev.  Felton 
resigned,  only  $1,100  remained  to  be  paid  on  the  building.  This 
left  the  small  congregation  with  a  suitable  place  of  worship  and 
well  established  for  advancement.  Since  then  the  following 
pastors  have  served:  Rev.  W.  F.  Steck,  August  3,  1890,  to 
(date  not  given)  ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Henderson,  August,  1893,  to 
October  1,  1895;  Rev.  George  S.  Bright,  June  28,  1896,  to  Feb- 
ruary 24,  1901.  During  this  pastorate  various  improvements 
were  made  in  the  church  property,  chief  of  which  were  the 
installation  of  electric  light  and  a  hot  water  heating  plant,  the 
interior  painted  and  a  new  carpet  laid.  The  rededication  was 
held  November  21,  1897.  Dr.  H.  H.  Weber  conducted  the  serv- 
ices and  raised  $900  for  the  payment  of  all  improvements. 
Rev.  Charles  D.  'Russell  served  June  12,  1901,  to  June  15, 
1905.  During  this  pastorate  a  tower  was  added  to  the  church, 
and  a  1,050  lb.  bell  placed  in  the  same,  at  a  cost  of  $1,000. 
Rev.  Charles  L.  Streamer  was  supply  pastor  June,  1905,  to 
April  1,  1906.  Rev.  H.  W.  Bender,  April  1,  1906,  to  October  1, 
1907.  Rev.  Charles  L.  Streamer,  supply  pastor,  October  1,  1907, 
to  January  15,  1908,  when  he  was  called  home  to  his  Heavenly 
Father,  dying  peacefully  in  his  home.  Rev.  E.  B.  Killinger,  D.D., 
supply  pastor,  May  1,  1909,  to  February  1,  1910,  when  he  was 
elected  regular  pastor  until  May  1,  191 1.  During  this  pastorate 
a  slate  roof  was  put  on  the  church,  at  a  cost  of  $700.  Rev.  N. 
G.  Phillipy,  a  student  of  the  Gettysburg  Seminary,  supplied  the 
summer  of  191 1.     Rev.  J.  H.  Keller,  June  1,  1912,  to  Novem- 

505 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


ber  23,  1913.     Rev.  Earl  J.  Bowman,  June  1,  1914  to 


During  this  pastorate  concrete  steps  were  built  at  three  entrances, 
the  walls  were  renovated,  a  new  lighting  system  installed,  new 
circular  pews  put  in,  and  a  new  carpet  laid,  at  a  cost  of  over 
$1,100.  Improvements  were  dedicated,  October  11,  1914,  with 
all  money  provided  for,  Dr.  J.  A.  Clutz,  of  Gettysburg  Seminary, 
preaching  three  sermons.  January  23,  1916,  a  new  two-manual 
Midmar  pipe  organ,  costing  $1,550,  was  dedicated,  with  all  money 
provided  for,  Dr.  Clutz  again  preaching.  June  25,  1916,  a  par- 
sonage in  a  good  residential  section  of  the  town  was  purchased 
for  $1,600. 

The  congregation  has  had  a  record  of  slow  but  steady  gain. 
It  suffered  severely  on  several  occasions,  when  many  Lutherans 
in  periods  of  business  depression  moved  to  other  communities 
for  better  work.  Owing  to  this  fact,  on  several  occasions  the 
church  was  assisted  by  the  Board  of  Home  Missions.  The  con- 
gregation at  present  has  a  beautiful  and  commodious  church 
and  a  comfortable  parsonage,  both  valued  at  $15,600.  It  has  142 
communicant  members,  a  well-arranged  Sunday  school  with  an 
enrollment  of  235,  an  active  Young  People's  Society,  a  Woman's 
Missionary  Society  and  an  active  Aid  Society. 


ST.  LUKE'S  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

ROARING  SPRING,   PA. 

Rev.  H.  E.  Berkey,  Pastor 

The  Lutheran  Church  here  dates  from  1851.  November  2  of 
that  year  Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner,  from  Gettysburg  Theological 
Seminary,  became  pastor  of  the  Martinsburg  charge.  He  soon 
began  preaching  in  the  schoolhouse.  at  Spang's  Mill,  now  Roar- 
ing Spring.  In  1852  the  Martinsburg  charge  was  divided.  Rev. 
Fichtner  continued  to  serve  the  Newry  portion,  including 
Spang's  Mill. 

By  an  agreement,  June  6,  1855,  Pastor  Fichtner  and  his  people 
secured  from  George  B.  Spang,  a  Lutheran  and  leading  citizen 
of  the  town,  a  lot  "for  Church  purposes,  on  the  Morrison's  Cove 
Turnpike  (near  the  Graveyard  Field  Gate)."  This  lot  was 
exchanged  by  "Adam  Mosey,  Jacob  Coltabaugh  and  Joseph 
506 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROARING  SPRING 


Kelly,  deacons  of  the  Lutheran  congregation  at  Newry,  duly 
empowered  and  authorized  to  act  in  the  matter  by  an  article  of 
agreement  dated  July  18,  1857,  with  the  administrator  and  heirs 
of  G.  B.  Spang,  deceased"  (Blair  County  Deed  Book  I,  pp.  65- 
66),  for  the  then  more  central  lot  opposite  the  present  (1917) 
depot.  The  title  by  this  deed  being  defective,  January  18,  1858, 
Job  M.  Spang  and  his  wife,  Rachael  E.,  "to  remedy  said  defect, 
and  perfect  the  title  to  said  lot,"  gave  another  deed  to  "Jacob 
Snowberger,  elder,  George  Clugh,  deacon,  and  Robert  Todd, 
trustee,  officers  (and  their  successors  in  office)  of  the  Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran  Church  at  Spang's  Mill." 


st.  luke's  evangelical  Lutheran  church,  roaring  spring 


On  this  lot  there  had  been  erected  in  1856  a  brick  one-story 
church  building,  30  by  45  feet,  and  costing  $1,600.  The  corner- 
stone was  laid  June  27,  1856,  Rev.  P.  Sahm  preaching  the 
sermon  from  1  Peter  2 ;  6.  This  work  was  presumably  directed 
by  the  above  Newry  deacons,  as  the  property  was  deeded  to  be  a 
part  of  the  Newry  charge. 

The  Spang's  Mill,  afterwards  Roaring  Spring,  congregation 
was  organized  Saturday,  July  4,  1857,  and  Sunday,  July  5,  1857. 
the  church  building  was  dedicated.  Rev.  J.  Kunkleman  preach- 
ing on  this  occasion. 

Names  of  the  original  members  of  the  congregation  are  not 
known,  nor  the  first  church  officers,  except  those  named  above. 

In  1865,  when  Rev.  P.  S.  Hooper  was  pastor  at  Martinsburg. 

507 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Roaring  Spring  was  again  added  to  the  Martinsburg  charge.  A 
very  trying  situation  had  developed  in  the  Roaring  Spring  con- 
gregation at  the  close  of  Rev.  Fichtner's  pastorate.  Rev. 
Hooper  rendered  very  valuable  services  and  succeeded  in  again 
bringing  about  normal  conditions. 

In  1869  the  church  property  was  "nailed  up  by  the  sheriff  to 
be  sold  for  debt."  Henry  B.  Walter  and  his  wife,  Anna  Eliza 
Walter,  with  Pastor  Streamer,  persuaded  the  heirs  of  a  delin- 
quent subscriber  to  the  church  debt  to  pay  the  $300  and  interest 
from  that  source,  and  the  balance  of  over  $600  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Walter  paid  themselves.  This  explains  the  memorial  window 
and  marble  tablet,  respectively,  to  these  deceased  members. 

In  1885  a  release  of  the  Roaring  Spring  Church  property  from 
the  Newry  charge  was  secured. 

By  1886  the  growth  of  the  congregation,  as  well  as  the  town, 
made  a  better  located  and  more  commodious  church  building 
desirable.  The  old  location  was  also  rendered  objectionable  by 
the  railroad  built  directly  past  the  front  of  the  church.  The 
present  location  corner  of  East  Main  and  Gerard  Streets,  near 
the  original  "Grave  Yard  Field  Gate"  lot,  was  secured  for 
$2,000. 

The  corner-stone  for  the  new  church  was  laid  May  1,  1887, 
Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor  preaching,  and  Rev.  E.  Dutt  laying  the  stone. 
Below  this  corner-stone  the  old  corner-stone  from  the  first 
church  building,  dated  1856,  was  laid.  The  mason  work  in 
laying  these  stones  in  both  buildings  was  done  by  Brother  John 
Mohr  who  still  abides  with  us  (June,  1917). 

The  present  church  building  was  dedicated  March  25,  1888. 
Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  Philadelphia,  preached  the  sermon,  and 
Rev.  J.  W.  Henderson,  of  Newry,  assisted  the  pastor.  The 
church  was  of  brick,  44  by  69  feet,  with  tower,  auditorium, 
Sunday  school  room  and  primary  room.     The  cost  was  $7,500. 

A  church  charter  was  secured  June  22,  1887. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  joint  council  of  the  Martinsburg  charge, 
February  12,  1889,  the  Roaring  Spring  congregation  asked  per- 
mission to  withdraw  and  form  a  separate  pastorate.  The  request 
was  granted  and  went  into  effect  April  7,  same  year. 

In   1893,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  W.  H.  Hilbish,  D.D., 
the  present  parsonage  was  bought  for  $1,450. 
508 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROARING  SPRING 


In  1897,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  J.  R.  Sample,  the  old 
parsonage  building  between  the  present  parsonage  and  the 
church  was  removed  and  the  lot  converted  into  a  lawn,  and  the 
present  parsonage,  then  and  since,  much  improved. 

In  1906  the  church  building  was  largely  rebuilt.  The  old 
tower  was  razed,  the  front  gable  moved  out  ten  feet,  and  the 
present  three  towers  built.  Fifteen  feet  was  added  to  the  rear 
of  the  building,  making  the  length  94  feet.  The  interior  was 
rearranged  and  mostly  refurnished,  including  an  Estey  pipe 
organ,  at  a  cost  of  about  $10,000. 

In  191 1,  by  the  will  of  the  Misses  Susan  B.  and  Elizabeth  B. 
Snowberger,  the  congregation  received  an  endowment  of  $3,000 
in  cash  and  a  $1,500  endowment  in  the  Jacob  Snowberger  (now 
Jacob  H.  Kauffman)   farm  at  East  Sharpsburg. 

In  191 5-16  the  church  was  thoroughly  repaired,  renovated 
and  improved  at  a  cost  of  about  $3,000. 

The  Sunday  school  has  existed  almost  from  the  beginning  of 
the  church.  Its  superintendents  longest  in  service  have  been : 
Samuel  Wilderson,  Henry  B.  Walter,  D.  S.  Brumbaugh,  Esq., 
Dr.  A.  S.  Stayer  and  Prof.  J.  K.  Ritchey. 

The  Christian  Endeavor  Society  was  organized  July,  1892. 
Its  first  president  was  Mrs.  J.  W.  Bogart,  nee  Miss  Minnie  M. 
Slick. 

A  Ladies'  Aid  and  Missionary  Society  was  organized  by  Rev. 
F.  S.  Delo  in  1900.  In  19 14  this  was  divided,  and  a  separate 
Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  organized  by 
Mrs.  H.  E.  Berkey,  the  Aid  Society  continuing  as  a  separate 
organization. 

St.  Luke's  pastors  have  been:  Rev.  Joseph  Fichtner,  1851- 
1864;  Rev.  P.  S.  Hooper,  1864-1866;  Rev.  J.  W.  Schwartz, 
1866-1867;  Rev.  P.  Sheeder,  1867-1869;  Rev.  C.  L.  Streamer, 
1 869- 1 873;  Rev.  D.  Stock,  1874- 1879;  Rev.  E.  Dutt,  1880- 1889; 
Rev.  C.  P.  Harrah,  1 889-1891 ;  Rev.  B.  S.  Dise,  1891-1893;  Rev. 
W.  H.  Hilbish,  1893-1894;  Rev.  J.  R.  Sample,  1895-1899;  Rev. 
F.  S.  Delo,  1900-1901 ;  Rev.  J.  J.  Hill,  1901-1906;  Rev.  C.  E. 
Keller,  1906-1913;  Rev.  H.  E.  Berkey,  1914  to  date. 

The  present  confirmed  membership  is  456. 


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SINKING  VALLEY  CHARGE 

Rev.  Mervyn  J.  Ross,  Pastor 

The  St.  John's,  or  Sinking  Valley,  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Congregation 

sinking  valley,  tyrone  township,  blair  county,  pa. 

It  is  likely  that  this  congregation  had  its  beginning  sometime 
in  the  year  1804,  when  Rev.  Haas  began  his  work  in  Huntingdon 
County.  Tradition  has  it  that  he  preached  here  regularly  while 
he  was  in  the  Huntingdon  charge.  The  first  baptism  recorded 
in  the  church  book  (written  in  German)  was  administered  in 
1801,  but  by  whom  is  not  recorded,  and  the  same  is  the  case  in  all 
the  baptisms  to  1804  when  Rev.  Haas  took  charge.  What  a 
satisfaction  it  would  be  now  to  know  the  name  of  the  minister 
or  ministers ;  whether  it  was  a  traveling  missionary,  Rev.  llgen, 
of  Aaronsburg,  or  Rev.  Walter,  of  Middleburg.  Most  likely  the 
latter,  who  at  least  came  once  a  year  and  administered  the  Lord's 
Supper  and  baptized  the  children,  as  the  dates  of  baptism  in  the 
church  book  indicate  to  have  taken  place  in  the  spring  and  fall, 
and  many  on  or  near  the  same  day. 

In  these  early  days  when  preachers  were  very  few  and 
churches  were  not  yet  organized  in  much  of  the  newly  settled 
territory,  it  is  reasonable  to  believe  that  the  communities  were 
first  given  attention  where  there  were  devout  believers  who 
longed  for  the  preaching  of  the  word  and  made  known  their 
desire  by  arranging  for  ministers  to  visit  them  to  preach  and 
administer  the  sacraments.  In  this  community  Mr.  George 
Fleck  seems  to  have  been  instrumental  in  arranging  for  the 
services  of  the  traveling  missionaries.  When  Rev.  Haas  came 
he  preached  in  his  house  until  the  meeting  house  was  built,  a 
period,  possibly,  of  fifteen  years.  The  Fleck  family  are  still 
active  in  the  church  work  of  this  valley. 

The  following  is  a  complete  list  of  the  pastors  who  served 
this  congregation  from  1804  to  the  present  time :  F.  Haas,  1804 
to  February  7,  1815;  John  G.  Schmick,  1816  to  1828;  Jacob 
Martin,  October  1828  to  1838;  Michael  Eyster,  December  1, 
1838,  to  May  1,  1845;  William  S.  Emery,  May  I,  1845,  to 
October  1,  1847;  William  Z.  Laitzle,  April  1,  1848.  to  July  1, 
510 


ST.  JOHN'S,  SINKING  VALLEY 


1850;  John  T.  Williams,  August  1,  1850,  to  April  1,  1854; 
Peter  M.  Rightmeyer,  April  1,  1854,  to  April  1,  1857;  Jacob  B. 
Christ,  April  1,  1857,  to  April  1,  1866;  A.  H.  Aughe,  May  1, 
1866,  to  September  26,  1869;  John  Kistler,  December  1,  1869, 
to  November  1,  1877;  John  Walterick,  January  1,  1878,  to  Sep- 
tember 3,  1882;  H.  M.  Oberholtzer,  December  1,  1882,  to  April 
1,  1888;  A.  J.  Bean,  August  1,  1888,  to  November  10,  1893; 
L.  H.  W.  Kline,  April  1,  1894,  to  January  1,  1895;  C.  F.  Jacobs, 
June  1,  1895,  to  March  15,  1898;  J.  A.  Dunlap,  July  1,  1898,  to 
April  1,  1901 ;  R.  S.  Stair,  April  1,  1903,  to  October  1,  1907; 
C.  H.  Shull,  January  1,  1908,  to  July  1,  1909;  G.  L.  Courtney, 


ST.    JOHN  S    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    SINKING    VALLEY 


December  1,  1910,  to  October  1,  1913;  Mervyn  J.  Ross,  July  1, 

19151.0 

The  combination  of  congregations  forming  the  charge  in  which 
St.  John's  has  been  associated  is  interesting.  Until  1816  it  was 
in  the  Huntingdon  charge,  which  embraced  the  whole  of  what  is 
now  Huntingdon  and  Blair  Counties,  also  a  point  in  Kishaco- 
quillas  Valley  near  Allenville.  In  this  territory  Rev.  Haas  had 
no  less  than  fourteen  preaching  places.  In  1816  the  territory 
was  divided,  and  Sinking  Valley  was  served  with  Waterstreet, 
Seven  Stars,  Half-Moon  Valley  (Gatesburg),  Salem,  Alleghany 
Furnace,  Newry,  Frankstown,  Williamsburg  and  Clover  Creek. 
After  about  two  years  two  of  these,  Williamsburg  and  Clover 

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Creek,  were  taken  over  by  the  Huntingdon  charge.  This 
arrangement  continued  until  1828  when  Synod  put  this  church 
in  what  they  called  the  Sinking  Valley  charge.  The  arrangement 
was  as  follows :  The  first  Sunday  the  minister  was  to  preach  at 
Williamsburg  and  Clover  Creek;  second  Sunday  at  Frankstown 
and  Alleghany  Furnace;  third  Sunday  at  Newry;  fourth  Sunday 
at  Sinking  Valley.  For  ten  years  the  charge  was  thus  served  by 
Rev.  Jacob  Martin. 

In  1838  a  redistricting  took  place,  and  Williamsburg  and 
Sinking  Valley  formed  a  separate  charge.  So  it  remained  until 
1845  when  it  was  put  back  in  the  Waterstreet  charge,  consisting 
this  time  of  Sinking  Valley,  Waterstreet  and  Seven  Stars.  In 
1873  tne  Seven  Stars  congregation  was  dismissed  to  the  Central 
Pennsylvania  Synod,  and  Rev.  Kistler,  then  pastor,  preached  at 
Tyrone  instead  of  at  the  Stars.  Tyrone  grew  and  needed  more 
attention,  and  in  1876  Waterstreet  was  dropped,  and  the  new 
charge  consisted  of  Sinking  Valley,  Tyrone,  Salem  and  Bells 
Mills  (Bellwood).  This  was  now  called  the  Tyrone  charge  and 
the  minister  lived  in  Tyrone.  During  the  arrangements  of  the 
previous  eighteen  years  the  pastors  lived  at  Birmingham,  where 
a  parsonage  was  owned  by  the  charge.  In  January,  1880,  it  was 
again  divided  and  Sinking  Valley,  Tyrone  and  Baughmans  (a 
newly  organized  congregation  on  the  Bald  Eagle  Creek,  after- 
wards abandoned)  were  together. 

On  March  5,  1888,  Tyrone  withdrew,  and  the  Sinking  Valley 
charge,  as  it  stands  to-day,  with  the  exception  that  Mt.  Olivet  was 
afterwards  added,  was  formed  as  follows :  Sinking  Valley,  Seven 
Stars,  Center  Line,  Warrior's  Mark.  Although  the  history  of 
the  charge  connections  of  this  church  is  somewhat  complicated  it 
shows  how  growth  makes  changes  necessary.  We  notice  that 
ministers  serving  this  congregation  lived  at  Huntingdon,  Water- 
street,  Williamsburg,  Tyrone,  Birmingham,  Warrior's  Mark,  and 
not  until  1806  did  a  minister  live  at  this  church,  except  perhaps, 
Rev.  Schmick,  who,  it  is  said,  lived  in  this  vicinity. 

This  congregation  is  in  its  third  house  of  worship.  As  stated 
before  the  congregation  was  organized  and  services  were  held 
for  several  years  in  the  dwelling  house  of  George  Fleck.  Mr. 
Fleck  then  deeded  an  acre  or  two  of  land  for  a  Lutheran  Church 
and  graveyard,  on  which  the  little  congregation  built  a  two-story 
512 


ST.  JOHN'S,  SINKING  VALLEY 


log  church.  What  year,  and  whether  it  was  finished  at  once  or 
during  a  number  of  years,  as  was  the  custom  at  that  time,  are 
unknown.  The  probability  is  that  it  was  built  about  the  year 
1819  during  Rev.  Schmick's  ministry.  This  building  was  of  the 
primitive  style,  built  of  logs,  a  gallery  on  three  sides  and  a  high 
box  pulpit  with  a  sounding  board  above  it.  A  pulpit  settee  that 
was  used  in  this  old  building  is  still  preserved.  When  the  build- 
ing was  torn  down  a  tenant  house,  in  sight  of  where  it  once  stood, 
was  constructed  of  its  material. 

In  1840  a  new  brick  church  was  built.  Rev.  Michael  Eyster, 
pastor.  The  building  committee  was  Thomas  Christman  and 
Conrad  Fleck.  The  contractors  were :  For  furnishing  stone  and 
hauling  brick,  Henry  Fleck ;  for  burning  brick,  Thomas  Christ- 
man;  for  laying  brick,  doing  stone  work  and  plastering,  Peter 
Burket;  for  wood  work  and  carpenter  work,  Robert  Stewart. 
David  Cree  did  the  painting.  The  building  was  54  by  45  feet, 
with  an  end  vestibule  and  basement.  The  cost  was  $2,316.39. 
The  corner-stone  was  laid  in  the  spring  and  was  dedicated  in 
the  latter  part  of  October.  Dr.  S.  Schmucker,  of  the  Theological 
Seminary  of  Gettysburg,  preached  the  sermon  for  the  occasion. 
It  was  a  fine  building  for  its  day  and  was  the  meeting-place  for 
the  Lutherans  for  many  miles  around.  It  was  popularly  called 
the  brick  church.  It  served  its  purpose  for  fifty-two  years,  when 
being  badly  in  need  of  repair  and  because  of  a  desire  for  a  church 
of  more  modern  arrangement,  the  present  structure  took  its 
place. 

At  a  congregational  meeting,  after  preparatory  services,  on 
October  24,  1891,  it  was  decided  to  build  a  new  church.  The 
building  committee  consisted  of  the  following:  George  Lotz, 
Reuben  Fox,  John  S.  Fleck.  The  following  week  the  committee 
met  and  began  arrangements  for  building.  Mr.  Dempwolf,  of 
York,  Pa.,  was  employed  to  design  the  building,  and  his  plans 
were  adopted  December  6,  189 1. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  June  11,  1892,  and  on  November  13 
of  the  same  year  it  was  dedicated.  On  Saturday  evening  pre- 
ceding, former  pastors  and  sons  of  the  congregation  in  the  min- 
istry held  a  reunion  in  the  church,  on  which  occasion  addresses 
were  delivered  by  Revs.  A.  S.  Fichthorn,  E.  S.  Johnston,  C.  L. 
Fleck   and   John   Kistler.      A   sufficient   amount   of   money   was 

513 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


secured  at  the  dedication  to  cover  the  remaining  indebtedness  of 
$1,600.  Rev.  H.  H.  Weber  preached  the  sermon  and  solicited 
funds.  The  church  is  of  modern  design.  It  is  built  of  brick, 
trimmed  with  Ohio  sandstone,  and  has  three  rooms  with  orna- 
mental porches  at  the  outer  entrances.  Its  windows,  containing 
the  best  quality  of  rolled  cathedral  glass,  are  memorial.  The 
spire  is  high  and  graceful.  The  building  cost  $10,000.  In  the 
history  of  the  congregation,  read  by  Rev.  C.  L.  Fleck,  it  is 
described  as  "an  artistic  structure  which  stands  as  a  monument 
of  the  devotion  and  liberality  of  the  congregation,  and  the  untir- 
ing effort  of  the  present  pastor,  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean." 

In  1906,  while  Rev.  Stair  was  pastor,  a  parsonage  was  built 
by  this  congregation  near  their  church.  It  is  a  well-planned 
frame  structure,  situated  on  a  plot  of  land  taken  from  the  Lotz 
farm. 

The  congregation  was  chartered  by  the  court  of  Huntingdon 
County,  November  22,  1845.  W.  S.  Emery,  J.  N.  Burket  and 
George  Lotz  wrote  the  constitution  and  articles  of  incorporation, 
which  are  recorded  in  the  above-named  court. 

The  Cemetery  Corporation  was  chartered  in  1898.  The  officers 
of  the  church  are  the  trustees  of  the  cemetery. 

The  congregation  has  an  Endowment  Fund,  to  which  bequests 
have  been  made  by  the  following  persons :  David  Crawford, 
Mrs.  David  Crawford,  David  Ramey,  Mrs.  Eliza  Bridenbaugh. 
Mr.  William  A.  Patton,  of  Philadelphia,  has  also  helped  the  con- 
gregation in  its  finances  from  time  to  time.  The  Second  Lutheran 
Church,  of  Altoona,  is  at  the  present  time,  through  the  Mission- 
ary Committee  of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  paying  a  portion  of  the 
pastor's  support. 

ORGANIZATIONS 

The  oldest  organization  was  a  missionary  society,  auxiliary  to 
the  Parent  Education  and  General  Society.  This  organization 
has  a  record  that  dates  back  to  the  year  1837.  Peter  Burket  was 
the  president.  The  people  generally  contributed,  and  quite 
respectable  sums  were  raised  for  several  years.  We  cannot  tell 
how  long  it  was  in  existence  ;  but  we  find  in  an  old  treasurer's 
record  that  contributions  were  frequently  made  to  this  cause. 

On  October  9,  1842,  we  find  a  record  of  the  church  council's 
authorization  of  three  prayer  meetings ;  one  to  be  held  at  the 
514 


ST.  JOHN'S,  SINKING  VALLEY 


church  on  Sundays  when  there  was  no  preaching,  one  in  the 
west  end  of  the  valley  and  one  in  the  east  end  of  the  valley. 
The  one  in  the  church  was  to  be  presided  over  by  Henry  Fleck ; 
the  one  in  the  west  end  of  the  valley  by  George  Lotz,  and  the 
one  in  the  east  end  by  John  G.  Fleck.  We  have  no  record  as  to 
how  long  these  continued,  but  find  many  years  later  that  T.  M. 
Fleck  led  the  prayer  meetings  that  were  held  on  Sunday  even- 
ings in  the  brick  church. 

The  Sunday  school  is  perhaps  the  next  oldest  organization. 
It  has  an  elegant  record  since  1843,  when  Rev.  Eyster  was  pas- 
tor. George  Hubley  must  have  been  active  in  this  movement.  He 
presented  the  school  with  its  first  blank  record.  George  Fleck 
was  superintendent  for  many  years ;  his  successors  were  as  fol- 
lows: George  Lotz,  M.  L.  Fleck,  T.  M.  Fleck,  Sanford  Ramey, 
John  S.  Fleck,  J.  Howard  Lotz.  Money  was  raised  for  the  first 
Sunday  school  library  August  1,  1845;  June  6,  the  following 
year,  the  library,  consisting  of  461  volumes,  was  bought,  at  the 
cost  of  $85.  There  have  been  two  or  more  libraries  bought  since; 
one  of  them,  that  was  perhaps  the  largest,  was  bought  about 
1890.  Another  splendid  collection  was  received  later  as  a  memo- 
rial to  J.  Lyn  Patton.  The  school  circulated  literature  in  the 
form  of  papers  and  for  many  years  the  Sunday  School  Herald 
was  taken.  There  have  been  but  few  secretaries  of  the  school ; 
Gabriel  Fleck  performed  the  duties  of  the  office  for  about  fifty 
years.  He  was  also  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  congregation 
for  many  years  and  kept  the  best  records  and  the  cleanest  accounts 
in  its  possession  to-day. 

The  "Men's,"  Mr.  Alexander  Miller,  teacher,  and  "Busy  Bees," 
Mrs.  H.  C.  Lotz,  teacher,  were  organized  October  22,  1916. 

The  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was 
begun  in  January,  1881,  with  Sally  J.  Fleck  as  president;  she 
remained  at  its  head  for  a  good  many  years.  Its  number  of 
members  at  the  beginning  were :  active,  twenty-six ;  honorary, 
nine.  Its  membership  now  is :  active,  twenty-three ;  honorary, 
nine.  It  has  made  five  life  members.  This  society  has  a  splen- 
did record  in  the  help  it  has  given  to  missionary  cause.  It  has 
been  able  to  repair  its  loss  in  membership  and  has  always  kept  a 
live  interest  in  the  cause  of  missions  in  the  congregation.  It 
has   always  kept  the  men   interested  by  having  them   listed  as 

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honorary  members.     They  observe   their   anniversary   regularly 
and  often  celebrate  it  with  elegant  programs. 

In  May,  1916,  a  Mission  Band  was  organized.  They  have 
twenty-nine  active  and  eight  honorary  members. 

A  Young  People's  Aid  Society  was  organized  in  August,  1887 ; 
Howard  Lotz,  president ;  H.  S.  Fleck,  treasurer ;  Maggie  Fleck, 
secretary.  It  was  organized  with  the  financial  object  in  view, 
and  the  immediate  occasion  that  called  it  in  existence  was  the 
repairing  of  the  church.  When  the  plan  of  repairing  was  aban- 
doned it  directed  its  efforts  towards  raising  money  for  the  new 
building.  It  contributed  more  than  $500  towards  this  object.  It 
secured  its  funds  by  holding  festivals  and  giving  entertainments, 
and  was  very  successful  in  its  undertakings.  When  the  Blair 
County  Lutheran  Reunion  was  held  at  Hundred  Springs,  this 
organization  served  the  refreshments.  Although  it  was  most 
active  during  the  building  of  the  church,  it  was  later  called  into 
action  from  time  to  time  as  occasions  needed. 

The  Young  People's  Society  Christian  Endeavor  was  organ- 
ized in  March,   1897,  with  forty-five  active  members,  and  in  a 
few  months  reached  a  membership  of  almost  100.     It  has  played 
an   important  part   in   the   devotional   life   of   the   congregation 
H.  S.  Fleck  was  the  first  president. 

GENERAL   REMARKS 

This  congregation  has  an  enviable  record  in  the  production  of 
Lutheran  clergymen,  both  in  regard  to  number  and  character 
of  the  men  sent  out.  From  her  own  membership  came  the  fol- 
lowing five  ministers :  Revs.  Jacob  Burket,  Henry  Fleck,  L.  N. 
Fleck,  Cyrus  Fleck  and  E.  Lee  Fleck.  Aside  from  these,  sons 
fostered  and  trained  in  this  congregation  entered  the  ministry 
after  removal  and  are  credited  with  some  other  congregation. 
Thev  are :  Revs.  E.  S.  Johnston,  J.  R.  Williams  and  F.  H.  Criss- 
man.  These  men  all  enjoyed  the  church's  best  gift  of  education 
and  training,  and  all  became  active,  energetic  and  forceful 
preachers  and  highly  esteemed  pastors. 

We  note  the  following  fluctuations  in  the  communicant  mem- 
bership. Although  we  have  no  record  of  the  members  at  the 
beginning,  it  is  not  likely  they  were  very  many.  We  have  no 
record  at  all  during  Rev.  Schmick's  ministry  of  twelve  years. 
516 


MT.  OLIVET,  ALTOONA 


Beginning  with  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Martin  in  1829,  we  have 
splendid  records  up  to  the  present  time.  When  Rev.  Martin  took 
charge  there  are  but  seventeen  communicants  recorded  for  the 
first  communion  in  the  spring  of  1829.  The  next  Easter  he 
received  twenty-two,  and  records  a  total  of  fifty-seven.  From 
that  time  up  to  the  present  the  largest  number  recorded  was 
115,  in  1898,  and  smallest  number  fifty-five,  in  1915.  The  num- 
ber in  1916  was  ninety-one. 

The  congregation  had  its  first  Every  Member  Canvass  on 
April  9,  1916,  which  seemed  to  put  new  life  into  its  activities. 

Although  never  a  large  congregation,  its  members  have  had  a 
sturdy  faithfulness  that  has  always  worked  together  for  good. 
Because  of  the  trend  of  the  times  it  has  passed  through  crises 
peculiar  to  rural  churches  and  has  almost  as  great  strength  as 
ever.  The  present  membership  is  faithful  and  devoted  and  we 
believe  it  is  reasonable  to  expect  even  greater  things  in  the  days 
to  come. 

Mt.  Olivet  Lutheran  Church 

rural  route  no.  3,  altoona,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  organized  at  Bushman  Public  School- 
house,  January  3,  1897.  Rev.  H.  M.  Heilman,  pastor  of  Bethany 
Lutheran  Church,  Altoona,  had  been  preaching  nearly  every  four 
weeks  for  about  two  years.  The  people  of  the  community 
expressed  a  desire  to  organize  a  congregation  and  a  meeting  was 
appointed  for  this  purpose.  The  council  of  Bethany  Church 
was  present  at  the  meeting.  Twelve  charter  members  were 
received;  two  of  them,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thomas  White,  were  from 
Bethany  Church.  The  following  officers  were  elected :  Robert 
Cochran  and  W.  S.  Coldwell,  elders ;  Thomas  White  and  William 
Russel,  deacons.     Rev.  Heilman  was  elected  pastor. 

In  the  spring  of  1900  plans  were  made  to  build  a  church,  and 
the  corner-stone  was  laid  in  August  of  the  same  year.  Much  of 
the  labor  and  material  being  donated,  the  work  went  slow  and  it 
was  not  dedicated  until  November  16,  1902.  The  following  min- 
isters were  present:  Revs.  H.  M.  Heilman,  Henry  Fleck.  O.  C. 
Roth,  D.D.  The  choirs  from  Bethany  and  St.  John's,  Sinking 
Valley,  assisted  in  the  service. 

Rev.  FI.  M.  Heilman,  Rev.  F.  B.  Thomas,  Rev.  M.  H.  Stine 

517 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


served  this  congregation  while  pastors  of  Bethany.  Since  1909 
it  has  been  served  by  the  following  pastors  from  Sinking  Valley : 
Rev.  C.  H.  Shull,  Rev.  G.  L.  Courtney,  Rev.  Mervyn  J.  Ross. 

At  a  joint  council  meeting  of  the  Sinking  Valley  charge,  in 
July,  1916,  an  invitation  was  extended  to  this  congregation  to 
become  a  part  of  the  charge.  It  was  accepted  on  September  10 
and  sanctioned  by  Synod  on  October  4  of  the  same  year. 

Spruce  Creek,  or  Seven  Stars,  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Church 

franklin  township,  huntingdon  county,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  organized  by  Rev.  F.  Haas  about  the 
same  time  the  Huntingdon  and  Waterstreet  congregations  were 
organized,  no  later  than  1805,  at  the  dwelling-house  of  George 
Mattern,  Sr.,  who  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  this  region. 
He  was  a  man  who  loved  his  church  and  had  Rev.  Haas  to 
preach  at  his  house.  On  March  2,  1806,  for  the  consideration  of 
$5,  never  collected,  he  deeded  a  lot  of  about  one  acre  of  land  to 
the  Lutheran  congregation  for  church  and  graveyard  purposes. 
The  congregation  was  small,  as  the  country  was  mostly  settled 
with  Scotch-Irish  Presbyterians  and  some  Germans  who  belonged 
to  the  Lutheran  Church  from  the  eastern  counties.  For  some 
time  the  congregation  worshiped  in  the  log  schoolhouse  that 
stood  near  the  location  of  the  present  church  building.  This 
schoolhouse  was  of  the  primitive  type ;  the  timber  was  all  worked 
out  with  the  axe,  the  frame  was  log,  the  benches  were  split  slabs. 
The  congregation  erected  a  two-story  log  church,  28  by  30  feet, 
with  a  gallery  on  three  sides,  high  pulpit  with  a  sounding-board 
above  it.  It  stood  near  the  center  of  the  graveyard.  In  this 
primitive  church  the  congregation  worshiped  until  December  18, 
1853,  nearly  fifty  years.  Rev.  Haas  continued  pastor  of  this 
congregation  until  February  7,  181 5,  when  he  resigned.  A 
vacancy  of  nearly  two  years  occurred  and  Rev.  Ugen,  of  Aarons- 
burg,  Center  County,  and  Rev.  Walter,  of  Middleburg,  Snyder 
County,  visited  them  and  held  communion  for  them  and  baptized 
the  children. 

Mr.  John  G.  Schmick,  who  studied  under  Peter  Shindle,  of 
Sunbury,  began  to  supply  it  with  preaching  in  1816  and  1817, 
518 


SPRUCE  CREEK,  HUNTINGDON  COUNTY 

while  he  still  pursued  his  studies,  and  in  1818  was  licensed  by 
the  Pennsylvania  Synod  as  a  catechist  and  continued  pastor  of 
this  congregation  until  the  close  of  1827,  when  by  a  committee 
of  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod  he  was  suspended  and  in  1828 
expelled  by  Synod  for  his  unchristian  and  immoral  conduct.  He 
was,  along  with  other  faults,  greatly  in  love  with  gambling. 

In  1828  the  whole  field,  Huntingdon  and  Blair  Counties,  which 
at  that  time  formed  Huntingdon  County,  was  formed  into  two 
charges,  called  the  Alexandria  and  Williamsburg  charges.  This 
congregation  was  thrown  to  the  Alexandria,  or,  as  it  may  be 
properly  called,  the  Huntingdon  charge. 

About  November  1,  1829,  Rev.  Daniel  Moser  took  charge  of 
the  Alexandria  pastorate.  In  the  early  part  of  his  ministry  he 
had  but  sixteen  communing  members,  and  during  his  ministry, 
according  to  the  church  book,  he  added  forty  members  to  this 
congregation.  Rev.  Moser  was  pastor  of  this  congregation  for 
more  than  fifteen  years,  the  longest  period  that  any  pastor 
remained  on  the  charge.  The  work  responded  under  his  faithful 
services,  so  that  at  one  time  he  reported  sixty  members,  the  most 
in  the  history  of  the  congregation.  When  he  became  pastor  he 
lived  at  Waterstreet,  but  in  1831  he  built  as  his  own  property  a 
brick  house  at  the  Seven  Stars.  Here  he  resided  until  he 
resigned.  The  building  still  stands,  and  is  owned  and  occupied 
by  John  S.  Mattern. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  pastors  from  1845 :  William  S. 
Emery,  May  1,  1845,  to  October  1,  1847;  William  Z.  Laitzle, 
April  1,  1848,  to  July  1,  1850;  John  T.  Williams,  August  1,  1850, 
to  February  1,  1854;  Peter  M.  Rightmeyer,  February  1,  1854, 
to  April  1,  1857;  Jacob  B.  Christ,  April  1,  1857,  to  April  1,  1866; 
A.  H.  Aughe,  May  1,  1866,  to  September  26,  1869;  John  Kistler, 
December  1,  1869,  to  1873;  R-  H.  Fletcher,  February,  1873,  to 

;  G.  S.  Battersby,  July  19,  1874,  to ;  G.  W.  Stroup, 

April  30,  1876,  to ;  R.  Smith,  November  1,  1877,  to ; 


H.   R.   Fletcher,    December,    1881,   to  ;    Rev.    McHenry, 

April,  1883,  to  ;  A.  J.  Bean,  August  1,  1888,  to  Novem- 
ber 10,  1893;  L.  H.  W.  Kline,  April  1,  1894,  to  January  1,  1895; 
C.  F.  Jacobs,  June  1,  1895,  to  March  15,  1898;  J.  A.  Dunlap, 
July  1,  1898,  to  April  1,  1901  ;  R.  S.  Stair,  April  1,  1903,  to  Octo- 
ber 1,  1907;  C.  H.  Shull,  January.  1,  1908,  to  July  1,  1909;  G.  L. 

519 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


Courtney,  December  i,  1910,  to  October  1,  1913. 

The  present  church  building  was  erected  in  1853.  It  was  dedi- 
cated on  December  18  of  the  same  year,  and  cost  about  $1,500. 
On  November  15,  1858,  another  lot  of  ground  by  the  side  of  the 
graveyard  .was  deeded  to  the  congregation  by  George  Mattern, 
Jr.,  to  enlarge  the  graveyard. 

Although  this  is  one  of  our  old  and  faithful  congregations,  it 
never  had  a  large  membership.  No  doubt  its  most  flourishing 
period  was  when  Rev.  Moser  was  pastor,  who  lived  there.  On 
November  18,  1888,  twenty-three  members  communed,  and  ten 
years  later  but  nine  members  are  reported.  The  falling  off  is 
largely  accounted  for  by  the  organization  of  a  congregation  at 
Warriors  Mark  in  1888,  which  was  made  up  mostly  of  members 
from  this  place.  Because  of  the  condition  of  the  building  there 
have  been  no  services  since  1913.  There  are  but  three  members 
left  in  the  community. 

This  congregation  was  a  victim  of  circumstances.  Situated 
near  the  Pittsburgh  and  Philadelphia  Pike,  where  it  is  intersected 
by  another  pike  from  Philipsburg  and  Clearfield,  a  station  on 
one  of  the  main  thoroughfares  of  travel  across  the  State,  its 
tavern  lodged  many  travelers  and  teamsters.  With  the  coming 
of  the  railroads  and  growing  of  the  cities,  this  small  congrega- 
tion became  weaker,  until  it  is  now  considered  gone ;  but  we 
know  the  preaching  there  nourished  many  precious  souls,  led 
them  in  the  path  of  righteousness  and  usefulness  for  the  Master, 
and  directed  them  to  the  Saviour  to  whom  they  have  gone.  Its 
usefulness  still  lives,  and  those  remaining  who  worshiped  there 
cherish  many  sacred  memories  of  the  place  where  they  called 
upon  the  name  of  the  Lord. 

The  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 
warriors  mark,  huntingdon  county,  pa. 
This  congregation  is  principally  formed  out  of  members  who 
formerly  belonged  to  Seven  Stars  congregation  and  had  between 
five  and  six  miles  to  come  to  church.  The  ministers  who  served 
the  Seven  Stars  congregation  occasionally  preached  at  Warriors 
Mark  and  those  living  in  the  vicinity  for  years  desired  to  have  a 
congregation  organized  in  the  place,  but  it  was  thought  that  the 
membership  would  be  too  weak  and  also  that  it  would  weaken 
520 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  WARRIORS  MARK 

the  Seven  Stars  congregations;  for  these  reasons  some  of  the 
most  influential  members  opposed  it.  And  as  the  vicinity  was 
almost  entirely  under  Methodistic  influence  for  years,  it  was 
easily  foreseen  that  there  would  be  great  opposition  to  a  Lutheran 
congregation  in  the  place.  But  the  Lutherans  prepared  them- 
selves for  the  emergency.  Center  Line  and  Seven  Stars  were 
without  a  regular  pastor  because  they  were  unable  to  support 
one,  and  unable  to  unite  with  any  other  charge.  Rev.  Oberholtzer 
was  invited  to  preach  a  few  times  at  Warriors  Mark  and  see 
what  could  be  done.  The  Sinking  Valley  congregation  saw  their 
opportunity  and  favored  the  plan  to  organize  a  congregation; 
although  able  to  support  a  pastor  themselves  they  were  willing 
to  unite  with  a  new  charge  and  also  aid  Warriors  Mark  to  build 
a  church.  Rev.  Oberholtzer  felt  much  encouraged,  and  at  his 
next  appointment  in  the  evening  desired  to  test  the  matter,  and 
requested  that  all  those  who  would  favor  and  be  willing  to  join 
in  with  a  Lutheran  organization  should  remain  after  the  bene- 
diction was  pronounced.  To  the  surprise  of  pastor  and  people 
about  forty  persons  remained.  The  organization  was  effected 
on  May  31,  1888,  at  the  house  of  James  Chamberlain,  in  pursu- 
ance of  a  call  previously  made  to  organize  a  Lutheran  congrega- 
tion whose  government  and  discipline  shall  be  in  accordance  with 
the  formula  of  the  Lutheran  Church  and  constitution  of  the  Gen- 
eral Synod.  A  constitution  was  adopted  with  twenty-two  charter 
members  and  at  the  next  congregational  meeting  the  proper  offi- 
cers were  elected.  This  small  congregation  worshiped  in  the 
schoolhouse  until  the  church  was  finished.  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean,  on 
August  1,  1888,  took  charge  of  the  Sinking  Valley  pastorate, 
which  had  been  lately  formed,  consisting  of  Sinking  Valley,  War- 
riors Mark,  Center  Line  and  Seven  Stars.  The  need  of  a  suit- 
able place  in  which  to  worship  was  deeply  felt,  and  the  members, 
with  their  pastor,  prepared  to  build ;  and  so  energetic  were  the 
members  that  on  September  23,  1888,  the  corner-stone  was  laid. 
Rev.  Oberholtzer,  of  Tyrone,  preached  the  sermon  for  the  occa- 
sion, and  Rev.  Bean,  pastor  loci,  laid  the  corner-stone.  About 
$60  was  collected  for  the  new  church.  On  February  11,  1889, 
the  congregation  was  incorporated,  and  on  August  29.  1889, 
James  Chamberlain,  for  the  consideration  of  $1,  deeded  the  lot 
to  the  congregation. 

521 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


The  church  was  dedicated  on  July  14,  1889.  Rev.  Manges,  of 
Philadelphia,  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  Revs.  I.  Krider, 
H.  M.  Oberholtzer  and  Cyrus  B.  Fleck  were  also  present  and 
assisted  in  the  services.  The  church  is  a  frame  structure,  32  by 
47  feet,  with  a  side  room  16  by  22  feet,  with  pulpit  recess,  and 
a  recess  in  front.  It  cost  about  $3,000.  It  is  a  neat  church 
and  reflects  great  credit  on  the  congregation  and  pastor.  The 
pastors  who  have  served  this  congregation  are  the  same  as  those 
of  Sinking  Valley. 

St.  Matthew's,  or  Center  Line  Lutheran  Church 
half  moon  township,  center  county,  pa. 

For  many  years  a  union  Sunday  school  was  conducted  in  the 
Center  Line  schoolhouse ;  occasionally  there  was  preaching  by 
the  Methodist  pastor  of  Warriors  Mark.  The  Lutherans  and 
Methodists  predominated  in  the  community ;  the  Lutherans  held 
their  membership  at  Gatesburg  and  the  Methodists  at  Warriors 
Mark.     The  Methodists  had  a  class  meeting  in  the  community. 

In  1868,  Rev.  Daniel  Sell,  pastor  of  the  Pine  Grove  charge,  con- 
ducted evangelistic  meetings  at  which  several  converts  were 
received.  This  gave  the  Lutherans  encouragement,  and  an 
organization  was  very  soon  effected,  with  a  membership  of  about 
twenty-five.  They  continued  in  the  schoolhouse  until  a  church 
building  was  erected  four  years  later,  on  land  donated  by  Isaac 
Beck.  It  was  dedicated  on  October  20,  1872,  by  Rev.  William 
Gottwald.  The  building  still  remains  and  has  always  been  kept 
in  good  condition.  A  cemetery  plot  adjoins  the  church ;  part  of 
it  was  donated  by  Isaiah  Beck. 

Rev.  Daniel  Sell,  who  organized  the  congregation,  remained 
pastor  for  a  year.  During  this  time  he  preached  once  a  month. 
He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  M.  G.  Earhart. 

In  the  spring  of  1872  the  Center  Line  and  Gatesburg  congre- 
gations were  separated  from  the  Pine  Grove  pastorate  and  were 
united  with  Spruce  Creek,  with  Warriors  Mark  as  an  outpost. 
This  formed  a  new  charge,  and  in  February,  1873,  Rev.  R.  H. 
Fletcher  became  pastor.  The  Synodical  connection  was  with  the 
Central  Pennsylvania  Synod.  On  July  19,  1874,  Rev.  G.  S. 
Battersby  became  pastor;  on  April  30,  1876,  Rev.  G.  W.  Stroup ; 
522 


FIRST,   TYRONE 


on  November  I,  1877,  Rev.  Smith  became  supply  pastor;  in 
1881  we  find  Rev.  Fletcher  pastor  for  the  second  time.  He 
served  this  charge  in  connection  with  the  congregations  in  Nippe- 
nose  Valley,  Clinton  County,  Pa.,  and  resided  at  Lock  Haven, 
Pa.     On  April  1,  1883,  Rev.  McHenry  became  pastor. 

With  its  three  small  congregations  this  charge  was  weak  and 
hardly  able  to  support  a  pastor.  Because  of  this,  when,  on 
March  5,  1888,  a  redisricting  of  the  Sinking  Valley  took  place, 
Gatesburg  went  back  to  the  Pine  Grove  charge,  and  Center  Line, 
Seven  Stars,  Warriors  Mark  and  Sinking  Valley  went  together, 
thus  forming  the  Sinking  Valley  charge  as  it  stands  to-day,  with 
the  exception  that  Mt.  Olivet  was  added  in  1916.  The  first  pastor 
of  this  new  charge  was  Rev.  A.  J.  Bean,  who  took  charge  on 
August  1,  1888.  The  names  of  the  succeeding  pastors  can  be 
found  in  the  history  of  the  Sinking  Valley  congregation. 

The  membership  of  this  congregation  was  never  large ;  the 
largest  communion  recorded  numbers  thirty-nine,  in  1874. 
Although  not  large  in  numbers,  it  has  always  been  energetic. 
The  building  is  kept  in  good  repair,  the  members  are  faithful 
and  the  Sunday  school  active.  At  the  present  time  the  situation 
is  unique ;  we  report  sixteen  members,  and  all  of  them  communi- 
cant and  contributing. 

A  prayer  meeting  was  held  regularly  every  Sunday  evening, 
from  the  beginning  of  the  organization  until  1894,  when  a  Chris- 
tian Endeavor  Society  was  organized  and  met  at  the  prayer 
meeting  hour.  This  prayer  life  and  consecration  accounts  for 
the  fact  that  the  congregation  has  given  to  the  Church  three 
ministers :  Revs.  A.  J.  Bean,  John  J.  Minemeier,  Frank  P. 
Fisher.  Her  influence  has  thus  outstretched  the  bounds  of  Half 
Moon  Valley,  and  we  believe,  in  proportion  to  her  consecration, 
she  shall  be  blessed  in  the  future. 


FIRST  ENGLISH  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

TYRONE,  PA. 

Rev.  J.  P.  Miller,  Pastor 

The  first  record  of  Lutheran  work  in  Tyrone  was  in  1854,  when 
by  authority  of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  Rev.  H.  Baker  organized 

523 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


a  mission  in  the  town.  The  Tyrone  Mission,  together  with  other 
points  in  the  community,  was  maintained  with  considerable  regu- 
larity for  a  number  of  years,  Synod  helping  generously  in  the 
financial  support.  By  1866  the  congregation  numbered  eighty- 
five  communicants,  owned  a  church  building  valued  at  $2,000, 
and  a  parsonage  valued  at  $1,800,  free  of  debt. 

Soon  after  this,  discord  arose  through  the  sympathies  of  the 
pastor  then  in  charge,  Rev.  Christian  A.  Fetzer,  with  the  Joint 
Synod  of  Ohio,  and  his  efforts  to  carry  the  congregation  into 
that  Synod.  This  was  finally  accomplished  in  1871,  by  his  suc- 
cessor, Rev.  P.  Doerr,  who  threw  off  all  allegiance  to  the  Alle- 
ghany Synod,  organized  the  congregation  in  the  name  of  the 
Joint  Synod  of  Ohio,  which  Synod  he  himself  joined. 

Quite  a  number  were  dissatisfied  with  the  high-handed  methods 
of  the  pastor  in  traducing  them  into  another  Synod.  With  these 
as  a  nucleus,  Rev.  J.  Kistler,  pastor  of  the  Waterstreet  pastorate, 
on  March  25,  1872,  organized  the  first  English  Lutheran  Church 
of  Tyrone  in  connection  with  the  Alleghany  Synod.  The  follow- 
ing is  a  list  of  the  twenty-four  charter  members :  W.  J.  Sausser 
and  wife,  Christian  Albright  and  wife,  Christopher  Opferkuch 
and  wife,  Phain  Shollenberger  and  wife,  George  Schatzer  and 
wife,  George  Ehman,  Mrs.  Samuel  Study,  Sophia  Maddy,  John 
A.  Hiller  and  wife,  John  Fry,  Sr.,  and  wife,  William  Shollen- 
berger and  wife,  Robert  Waring  and  wife,  Wilhelmina  Hiller, 
Adam  Estricher,  John  Fry,  Jr.  Of  the  above  there  are  living 
at  this  date,  June  1,  1917,  only  the  following:  Airs.  Christian 
Albright,  Miss  Wilhelmina  Hiller  and  Adam  Estricher.  The  fol- 
lowing are  the  names  of  the  first  church  council :  W.  J.  Sausser, 
Robert  Waring,  Sr.,  John  Fry,  Sr.,  and  William  Shollenberger. 

For  a  number  of  years  this  congregation  belonged  to  the  Sink- 
ing Valley  charge  and  received  much  sympathy  and  help  from 
the  Sinking  Valley  congregation.  In  1877,  Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick 
took  charge  of  the  pastorate,  which  at  that  time  consisted  of 
Tyrone,  Sinking  Valley,  and  St.  John's   (Bald  Eagle  Furnace). 

In  1881  the  congregation  began  the  erection  of  their  first  house 
of  worship.  This  was  completed  in  1882  and  dedicated  on 
August  27  of  the  same  year.  Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  Philadel- 
phia, preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  The  church  building  and 
furnishings  cost  about  $6,000,  the  lot  having  been  secured  some 
524 


FIRST,   TYRONE 


time  previously  by  the  generous  aid  of  the  Sinking  Valley 
congregation. 

During  the  ten  years  of  its  history  between  the  organization 
and  the  building  of  the  first  church,  the  congregation  worshiped 
in  the  following  places :  Public  school  building  on  Logan  Ave- 
nue;  in  a  room  on  second  floor  of  Public  Building;  in  a  room 
on  the  second  floor  of  the  Garman  Building;  in  the  Grand  Army 
Building.  These  were  years  of  difficulty  and  discouragement, 
and  consequently  of  slow  growth,  the  congregation  after  ten  years 
numbering  only  fifty-six  communicants. 

Soon  after  the  completion  of  the  church,  Rev.  Walterick 
resigned,  and  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  H.  M.  Oberholtzer,  who 
remained  in  charge  for  nine  years.  Until  1888,  Rev.  Oberholtzer 
served  the  Tyrone  charge,  which  consisted  of  Tyrone,  Sinking 
Valley,  and  several  other  congregations  in  the  neighborhood.  In 
the  above  year  Tyrone,  by  the  recommendation  of  Synod,  was 
constituted  a  charge  under  the  name  of  "Tyrone  Mission."  What 
appropriation  was  made  towards  its  support  does  not  appear,  but 
the  total  amount  spent  up  to  1888  on  Tyrone  and  the  various 
points  from  time  to  time  connected  with  it  was  reported  as  being 
about  $1,800.  Having  the  full  time  of  its  pastor,  the  congrega- 
tion now  entered  upon  a  more  prosperous  era. 

In  1894,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  F.  L.  Bergstresser,  who 
took  charge  in  1892,  the  first  parsonage  was  erected  on  Lincoln 
Avenue,  at  a  cost  of  about  $4,500,  including  the  lot.  In  1904 
the  old  church  building  was  sold  for  $3,500,  and  the  present 
brownstone  church  on  the  corner  of  Logan  Avenue  and  Thir- 
teenth Street  was  begun.  It  was  completed  in  1905  and  dedicated 
on  September  10  of  same  year.  The  cost  of  the  new  building, 
including  the  price  of  the  lot,  was  $29,651.  At  the  time  of  dedi- 
cation the  indebtedness  resting  upon  the  congregation  was  about 
$19,000.  This  has  been  reduced  from  time  to  time,  till  now  it 
is  only  about  $7,000. 

In  191 5  the  old  parsonage  on  Lincoln  Avenue  was  sold  for 
$4,000.  In  1916  the  present  parsonage  property  next  the  church 
on  Logan  Avenue  was  secured  from  A.  W.  Beyer,  at  a  cost  of 
$4,500. 

From  March  25  to  29,  1908,  during  the  pastorship  of  Rev.  E. 
M.  Morgan,  "Pastors'  Old  Home  Week"  was  observed.    All  the 

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former  pastors,  being  at  that  time  still  living,  were  present  and 
took  part  in  the  celebration. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  the  pastors  that  have  served  up  to 
this  time:  Rev.  J.  Kistler,  1872-1877;  Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick, 
1877-1882;  Rev.  H.  M.  Oberholtzer,  1 882-1 891 ;  Rev.  A.  S. 
Fichthorn,  1891-1892;  Rev.  F.  L.  Bergstresser,  1892-1907;  Rev. 
E.  M.  Morgan,  1907-1911;  Rev.  W.  H.  Fahs,  1911-1914;  Rev. 
J.  P.  Miller,  191 5 . 

The  different  organizations  of  the  church  are  as  follows :  Sun- 
day school,  organized  March,  1872,  W.  J.  Sausser,  superintend- 
ent; Dorcas  Society,  organized  1879,  and  reorganized  1893,  Mrs. 
C.  H.  Traynor,  president;  Senior  Christian  Endeavor,  organized 
1891  with  a  membership  of  sixty-five,  T.  J.  Gates,  president; 
Junior  Christian  Endeavor,  organized  1892  with  seven  members, 
Mrs.  A.  W.  Flenner,  president ;  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign 
Missionary  Society,  organized  1885,  and  reorganized  1891  with 
fifteen  members,  Miss  Anna  Albright,  president;  Children's  Mis- 
sion Band,  organized  in  1892;  Young  People's  Mission  Guild, 
organized  1917;  Lutheran  Brotherhood,  organized  1916  with 
eighty  members,  H.  M.  Sausser,  president ;  Ladies'  Aid  Society, 
organized  1909  with  twenty  members,  Miss  Jean  Miller, 
president. 

The  congregation  now  numbers  348  confirmed  members,  has  a 
Sunday  school  enrollment  of  340,  and  owns  a  property  valued  at 
$40,000.  Rev.  J.  P.  Miller  is  the  present  pastor,  having  taken 
charge  July  15,  1915. 


WILLIAMSBURG  CHARGE 

Rev.  J.  M.  Rearick,  Pastor 

The  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 

williamsburg,  blair  county,  pa. 

Among  the  early  residents  of  Williamsburg  were  many 
Lutheran  and  German  Reformed  people.  On  November  20,  1798, 
Jacob  Ake  deeded  a  lot  of  ground  to  these  two  denominations. 
About  the  year  1802  a  log  building,  20  by  22  feet,  was  erected 
thereon  and  was  used  for  church  and  school  purposes.  All  the 
526 


ZION,  WILLIAMSBURG 


denominations  represented  in  the  town  at  that  date  worshiped 
in  this  building  and  organized  their  congregations. 

In  the  absence  of  the  early  records  the  exact  date  of  the 
organization  of  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  cannot 
be  determined,  but  it  was  sometime  during  the  years  of  1805  and 
1806.  Rev.  Schmick,  of  the  Sinking  Valley  pastorate,  supplied 
the  congregation  with  preaching  from  1816  to  181 8,  when  it  was 
made  a  part  of  the  Huntingdon  pastorate  to  give  the  pastor  of 
that  field  a  more  adequate  support ;  but  it  is  not  known  that  Rev. 
Rebenach,  of  the  Huntingdon  pastorate,  conducted  more  than 
one  or  two  services  for  the  Williamsburg  congregation. 

In  1823  the  Williamsburg  congregation  petitioned  Synod  to  be 
made  a  part  of  the  Sinking  Valley  pastorate;  this  petition  the 
Synod  granted.  This  act  placed  the  congregation  under  the  pas- 
toral care  of  Rev.  Schmick. 

In  the  year  1823  a  stone  church  building  was  begun,  but  was 
not  completed  and  dedicated  until  the  fall  of  1827.  The  delay 
was  due  to  the  conduct  of  Mr.  Miller,  who  was  sent  East  to  col- 
lect some  money  to  help  pay  for  this  building.  After  collecting 
a  considerable  sum,  he  disappeared,  and  was  never  again  heard 
from.  The  ministers  present  at  the  dedication  of  this  church 
were :  Rev.  William  Himes,  of  Loysville,  Pa. ;  Rev.  William 
Yeager,  of  Bedford,  Pa. ;  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler,  of  Berlin,  Pa. ; 
Rev.  G.  A.  Reichert,  of  Indiana,  Pa.,  and  the  pastor,  Rev.  J.  G. 
Schmick.  The  church  was  29  by  32  feet  and  two  stories  high, 
with  galleries  on  three  sides ;  the  cost  was  $3,000.  It  was  erected 
on  the  same  lot  with  the  log  church.  At  the  same  meeting  the 
Williamsburg  pastorate  was  formed,  consisting  of  the  following 
points :  Williamsburg,  Clover  Creek,  Sinking  Valley,  Alleghany 
Furnace,  Newry  and  Frankstown.  In  1830  this  pastorate  bought 
a  parsonage  in  the  town  of  Williamsburg  for  $700  and  built  a 
stable  for  $100. 

In  the  year  1835  the  Williamsburg  congregation  purchased  a 
new  lot  in  the  southwestern  section  of  the  town  and  erected 
thereon  a  new  brick  church  building.  The  corner-stone  was  laid 
on  May  28,  1836.  Rev.  N.  G.  Scharretts,  of  Indiana,  preached  the 
sermon  for  the  occasion.  The  church  was  dedicated  on  June  18, 
1837.  Rev.  S.  R.  Boyer  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  The 
act  of  dedication  was  performed  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  Jacob  Martin, 

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under  whose  ministry  the  pastorate  greatly  prospered  in  material 
and  spiritual  matters.  He  may  well  be  called  the  Father  of  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  in  Blair  County.  In  the  spire  of 
this  building  swung  the  first  church  bell  in  all  this  section  of 
country. 

In  the  spring  of  1844  the  Williamsburg  congregation  and  the 
Sinking  Valley  congregation  were  separated,  and  a  new  pastorate 
was  formed,  consisting  of  Williamsburg,  Yellow  Springs  and 
Springfield  Furnace  (now  Clappertown  congregation). 

During  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  the  old  parsonage 
was  sold,  and  a  few  years  later,  during  the  ministry  of  Rev. 
Jacob  Heck,  a  new  parsonage  was  bought  near  the  church,  the 
amount  paid  for  it  unknown.  On  the  same  lot  with  the  parson- 
age a  lecture  and  Sunday  school  room  was  built,  at  a  cost  of 
about  $500. 

The  brick  church,  built  in  the  year  1835,  was  a  one-story 
building.  During  the  summer  of  1880  and  1881  this  church  was 
rebuilt ;  the  roof  was  removed  and  an  additional  story  was  added, 
at  a  cost  of  $5,000.  It  was  dedicated  on  October  16,  1881.  The 
dedicatory  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  W.  W.  Criley,  of 
Altoona.  Revs.  A.  M.  Whetstone,  M.  G.  Boyer  and  D.  L.  Ryder 
were  also  present  and  assisted  the  pastor,  Rev.  John  M.  Rice.  A 
new  parsonage  was  also  bought  during  the  ministry  of  Rev.  John 
M.  Rice,  for  the  sum  of  $1,400. 

In  the  year  1906,  the  Williamsburg  congregation  bought  the 
interests  of  the  Clover  Creek  and  Yellow  Springs  congregations 
in  the  parsonage.  The  object  of  this  purchase  was  to  use  the 
site  upon  which  to  erect  a  new  church  building.  The  parsonage 
was  torn  down,  also  the  brick  church  built  in  1835,  which  stood 
a  square  south  of  the  parsonage  site,  and  the  material  used  in  the 
new  church  and  parsonage.  The  corner-stone  of  the  new  church 
was  laid  on  July  14,  1907.  Rev.  C.  E.  Keller,  D.D.,  preached 
the  sermon ;  the  offering  was  $192.49.  The  church  was  dedicated 
June  14,  1908.  Rev.  H.  L.  Yarger  preached  the  dedicatory  ser- 
mon. The  dedicatory  rites  were  performed  by  the  pastor,  Rev. 
J.  B.  Umberger.  The  offering  amounted  to  $1,203.48.  The 
church  and  parsonage  are  built  together,  and  are  made  of  brick. 
The  parsonage  is  modern  throughout.  The  church  consists  of  an 
auditorium,  a  Sunday  school  room  with  galleries  on  two  sides, 
528 


CLOVER  CREEK,  OR  ST.  JOHN'S,  BLAIR  COUNTY 

and  a  festal  hall.  The  architecture  is  semi-Gothic  in  style.  The 
cost  was  about  $22,000. 

The  congregation  at  present  has  a  membership  of  250,  a  Sun- 
day school  enrollment  of  500,  a  very  active  Ladies'  Aid  Society,  a 
Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society,  and  a  Young 
People's  Society  of  Christian  Endeavor. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  pastors  who  served  it :  Rev.  Haas, 
1804-1815,  the  probable  organizer  of  the  congregation;  Rev.  J.  G. 
Schmick,  1816-1818;  Rev.  Rebenach,  1818-1820;  Rev.  John  F. 
Osterloh,  January,  1820,  to  July  1,  1821 ;  Rev.  Henry  Heine,  Sep- 
tember 1,  1821,  to  July  1,  1822;  Rev.  J.  G.  Schmick,  1823-1828; 
Rev.  Jacob  Martin,  November  1,  1828,  to  November  1,  1838; 
Rev.  Michael  Eyester,  December  1,  1838,  to  April  1,  1846;  Rev. 
Jesse  Winecoff,  April  1,  1846,  to  April  1,  1847;  Rev.  Peter  M. 
Rightmeyer,  April  1,  1847,  to  April  1,  1853  >  ^ev-  JacoD  H.  Heck, 
April  15,  1853,  to  about  April  15,  1855;  Rev.  A.  H.  Aughe, 
November  15,  1855,  to  November  16,  i860;  Rev.  Jesse  Berlin, 
January  1,  1861,  to  January  1,  1862  ;  Rev.  William  Hunt,  March  6, 
1862,  to  August  2,  1865;  Rev.  Solomon  McHenry,  December  1, 
1865  to  May  1,  1870;  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh,  November  1,  1870, 
to  November  1,  1875;  Rev.  John  M.  Rice,  May  1,  1876,  to 
May  31,  1882;  Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver,  July  1,  1882,  to  January  1, 
1886;  Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor,  April  1,  1886,  to  February  1,  1888;  Rev. 
E.  J.  Metzler,  April  1,  1888,  to  February  1,  1890;  Rev.  B.  R.  M. 
Sheeder,  April  5,  1890,  to  January  10,  1900;  Rev.  W.  M.  Spang- 
ler,  October  1,  1900,  to  April  30,  1905;  Rev.  J.  B.  Umberger, 
June  15,  1905,  to  April  1,  191 1 ;  Rev.  J.  M.  Rearick,  July  1,  191 1, 
the  present  pastor. 

Rev.  Charles  L.  Streamer  entered  the  ministry  from  this  con- 
gregation, and  Rev.  Mosheim  Rhodes,  D.D.,  was  a  baptized  mem- 
ber of  the  congregation. 

Clover  Creek,  or  St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Congregation 

woodbury  township,  blair  county,  pa. 

On  January  2,  1804,  Tobias  Hentine  leased  one-half  acre  of 

land  to  Abraham  Miller,  Adam  Sorrick,  Abraham  Halan,  George 

Eberhart,  Paul  Yerger,  Christian  Acker,  John  Scholes,  Abraham 

Ditch  and  John  Miller,  "For  and  in  consideration  of  promoting 

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public  worship,  and  the  education  of  children,  to  put  a  building 
on  the  land  of  hewn  logs,  the  inside  of  the  house  to  be  26  by  22 
feet  with  sufficient  windows  in  it ;  and  further  to  fence  it  in  a 
manner  that  sufficient  room  may  be  for  firewood ;  the  house  to 
be  covered  with  clapboards,  and  if  afterwards  it  shall  be  neces- 
sary the  subscribers  do  promise  and  agree  to  keep  the  above  said 
house  and  fence  in  good  repair  during  the  term  of  twenty  years." 
The  lease  also  required  that  out  of  their  number  two  men  should 
be  elected  to  have  the  oversight  or  inspection  of  the  building, 
that  the  same  may  be  made  and  finished  according  to  the  intents 
of  the  lease. 

The  first  person  buried  on  this  lot  of  ground  was  Barbara 
Hartman,  on  December  22,  1804;  the  second,  Casper  Hentine, 
great-grandfather  of  the  Sorrick  and  Focht  families  on  the 
mother's  side ;  of  the  two  families  at  the  present  time,  six  genera- 
tions are  buried  in  the  graveyard. 

On  November  16,  1809,  Tobias  Hentine  made  a  deed  for  the 
lot  of  ground  leased  to  the  above  named  persons.  Upon  survey- 
ing it,  it  was  found  to  contain  eighty-two  perches,  for  the  con- 
sideration of  $7,  which  amount  was  never  collected,  "To  Adam 
Sorrick  and  Christian  Acker,  Sr.,  Lutheran ;  Abraham  Miller  and 
Nicholas  Fouse,  German  Reformed,  elders  and  church  wardens 
of  the  congregation  commonly  called  Clover  Creek  congregation." 
This  deed  was  recorded  in  Huntingdon  on  May  11,  1818.  Soon 
'  after  the  lot  was  deeded,  the  clapboard  roof  was  removed  and  a 
good  shingle  roof  put  in  the  place,  and  the  building  weather- 
boarded  and  lined  with  good  white  pine  boards.  It  was  also 
furnished  with  a  small  pulpit,  altaf,  and  yellow  pine  benches. 

For  some  time  this  congregation  was  regarded  as  a  station 
belonging  to  the  Williamsburg  congregation,  although  Rev. 
Haas,  in  1809  or  1810,  organized  a  congregation  here  and  held 
communion  services.  From  1806  he  had  occasionally  preached 
here  and  had  a  class  of  catechumens  which  he  confirmed  at  John 
Michael  Garner's  house  in  Woodcock  Valley.  In  18 18,  Synod 
made  this  congregation  a  part  of  the  Huntingdon  charge,  and 
instructed  Rev.  Rebenach  to  take  charge  of  it,  but  it  does  not 
appear  that  he  preached  here  at  any  time. 

In  1823  this  congregation  petitioned  Synod  to  permit  it  to  unite 
with  Sinking  Valley  charge,  and  said  request  was  granted.  It 
530 


CLOVER  CREEK,  OR  ST.  JOHN'S,  BLAIR  COUNTY 

fell,  therefore,  under  the  pastoral  care  of  Rev.  J.  G.  Schmick 
until  he  was  suspended  in  1827,  and  expelled  from  the  ministry 
in  the  fall  of  1828,  by  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod. 

About  November  1,  1828,  Rev.  Jacob  Martin  took  charge 
of  this  congregation  and  preached  here  every  four  weeks. 
He  confirmed  two  catechetical  classes ;  the  first,  quite  a  large 
one,  he  confirmed  in  Williamsburg,  the  second  in  this  congrega- 
tion. He  resigned  the  Clover  Creek  congregation  with  the  object 
in  view  of  forming  a  new  charge.  After  much  delay,  conference 
urged  the  congregations,  and  the  new  pastorate  was  formed  in 
the  Summer  of  1838,  consisting  of  Clover  Creek,  Woodcock  Val- 
ley (Marklesburg),  Russels  schoolhouse,  Cassville  and  other 
points.  A  petition  was  sent  to  Synod  by  their  commissioner, 
Michael  Hetterick,  praying  Synod  to  confirm  the  formation  of 
this  new  charge.  It  was  confirmed  and  Rev.  John  G.  Ellinger 
took  charge  of  this  new  pastorate  and  preached  the  first  English 
sermon  at  an  evening  service  ever  preached  to  the  congregation ; 
this  was  very  acceptable  to  the  young,  but  objected  to  by  some 
of  the  older  members. 

On  New  Year's  Day,  1840,  a  congregational  meeting  was  held 
to  consider  the  feasibility  of  building  a  Lutheran  church.  The 
German  Reformed  people  had  withdrawn  from  the  ground,  and 
consequently  no  more  a  part  of  the  original  pact  as  contemplated 
in  the  deed.  It  was  decided  to  build  a  new  church  and  also  to 
buy  twenty  perches  of  ground  from  the  William  Love  heir,  that 
sufficient  room  may  be  had  for  the  new  building.  For  this  ground 
they  paid  $6;  the  deed  was  delivered  in  1841.  The  corner-stone 
for  the  new  church  was  laid  on  July  25,  1840.  Seats  were  pre- 
pared in  front  of  the  old  church  and  a  stand  erected,  where  Rev. 
D.  Moser,  of  Pinegrove,  Center  County,  preached  the  sermon  for 
the  occasion  in  the  German  language ;  Rev.  Eyester,  of  Williams- 
burg, also  preached.  The  liturgical  services  were  conducted  by 
the  pastor,  Rev.  Ellinger.  Rev.  Moses  Kegler,  of  the  Reformed 
denomination,  was  also  present.  The  customary  documents  were 
placed  in  the  corner-stone.  St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  was  the  name  chosen  for  the  congregation.  The  mem- 
bers of  the  council  at  that  time  were  Christian  Acker,  Sr.,  and 
Henry  Acker,  elders ;  John  Acker,  Henry  Acker,  Sr.,  and  Samuel 
Fink,  deacons.    Building  committee,  Christian  Acker,  Sr.,  George 

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Sorrick  and  Michael  Hetterick.  On  Sunday,  July  26,  communion 
services  were  held  in  Christian  Acker's  barn.  Rev.  D.  Moser 
preached  in  German  and  Rev.  C.  C.  Guenther  in  English.  A 
number  were  confirmed. 

The  church  was  dedicated  on  November  24,  1840.  It  was  a 
one-story  brick  building,  40  by  50  feet,  and  cost  $1,035.20. 

About  October  1,  1842,  Rev.  Benjamin  Laubach  became  pastor 
of  the  congregation.  He  served  the  charge  only  eight  months; 
ill  health  (consumption)  compelled  him  to  resign,  much  to  the 
regret  of  his  people.  Rev.  Laubach  was  the  first  licentiate  of  the 
Alleghany  Synod. 

From  November  1,  1843,  to  April  1,  1848,  the  congregation 
was  served  by  Rev.  William  G.  Laitzle. 

In  1848,  Synod  made  this  congregation  a  part  of  the  Markles- 
burg  charge  without  consulting  it.  Standing  upon  their  rights, 
they  refused  to  comply  with  this  action  of  Synod.  They  pre- 
ferred to  remain  with  the  Martinsburg  charge.  Consequently  it 
was  left  without  preaching  for  a  time.  The  German  Reformed 
minister  began  preaching  for  them  and  held  communion  for  them. 
Rev.  Peter  M.  Rightmeyer,  of  the  Williamsburg  charge,  seeing 
the  proselyting  shame,  began  in  1850  to  supply  them  with  preach- 
ing, until  March,  1853. 

On  March  28,  1853,  Rev.  John  Richards  took  charge  of  the 
Martinsburg  charge,  and  Clover  Creek  resolved  to  remain  with 
this  charge  for  the  present,  but  faring  so  badly  at  the  hands  of 
Rev.  Richards,  they  asked  to  be  made  a  part  of  the  Williams- 
burg pastorate,  which  request  was  granted.  From  that  date  on, 
the  pastors  are  the  same  as  those  in  the  list  given  in  connection 
with  the  Williamsburg  congregation. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Abraham  H.  Aughe,  the  congre- 
gation greatly  prospered.  The  church  was  repaired,  new  pews 
put  in  at  a  cost  of  $150,  and  $103  contributed  to  buy  a  parsonage 
in  Williamsburg. 

On  July  1,  1882,  Rev.  Charles  B.  Gruver  was  called  to  the 
Williamsburg  pastorate.  On  March  11,  1883,  a  congregational 
meeting  was  called  in  the  Clover  Creek  Church,  and  a  resolution 
was  adopted  to  build  a  new  church.  The  following  building  com- 
mittee was  appointed :  Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver,  chairman ;  Samuel 
Bassler,  Thomas  Collins,  Adam  Sorrick,  John  C.  Sorrick,  Isaiah 
532 


THE  HENRY,  OR  YELLOW  SPRINGS 


S.  Garner  and  William  Estep.  On  June  2  the  plan  for  the  church 
was  adopted  and  preparations  made  to  build  the  following  year. 
The  corner-stone  was  laid  on  May  10,  1884,  and  the  customary 
documents  deposited.  Rev.  M.  G.  Boyer,  of  Marklesburg, 
preached  the  sermon  for  the  occasion.  He  was  followed  by  Rev. 
E.  Dutt,  of  Martinsburg.  The  pastor  laid  the  corner-stone.  The 
dedicatory  services  began  on  the  evening  of  October  16,  with  a 
sermon  by  Rev.  Joseph  R.  Focht,  a  son  of  the  congregation ; 
on  the  evening  of  October  17,  Rev.  E.  Dutt  preached;  and  on 
Saturday,  at  2  o'clock,  the  eightieth  anniversary  of  the  congrega- 
tion was  celebrated ;  Rev.  Joseph  R.  Focht,  of  Huntingdon,  deliv- 
ered an  historical  address.  On  Sunday  morning,  at  10.30  o'clock, 
Rev.  W.  W.  Criley,  of  Altoona,  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon. 
After  the  sermon,  $1,800  was  raised  to  free  the  building  of  all 
incumbrances.  At  the  evening  service  nearly  $100  was  raised 
towards  buying  an  organ.  The  day  was  a  most  joyous  and  happy 
one. 

As  the  last  words  of  this  history  are  written  (May  19,  1917), 
plans  are  well  under  way  to  extensively  repair  and  beautify  St. 
John's  Church  building. 

For  a  list  of  pastors  not  given  above,  see  list  appended  to  the 
Williamsburg  congregation. 

St.  John's  gave  the  following  of  her  sons  to  the  ministry :  Rev. 
Joseph  R.  Focht,  Rev.  David  Focht  and  Rev.  George  J.  M. 
Ketner. 

The  Henry,  or  the  Yellow  Springs  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Congregation 
catharine  township,  blair  county,  pa. 
Yellow  Springs  is  situated  on  the  State  Road  leading  from 
Hollidaysburg  to  Huntingdon,  five  miles  north  of  Williamsburg. 
For  more  than  a  quarter  of  a  century  the  Lutheran  people  of  this 
community  had  their  church  home  with  the  Williamsburg  con- 
gregation. W7hen  Rev.  Jacob  Martin  assumed  the  duties  as  pastor 
of  the  Williamsburg  pastorate,  he  occasionally  preached  in  this 
community.  Some  of  these  preaching  services  were  held  in  Mr. 
Kinkade's  dwelling-house,  and  some  in  the  public  schoolhouse. 

In  1843,  Rev.  Michael  Eyester  organized  a  congregation  in  the 
eight-square  schoolhouse  along  the  road  leading  from  the  pike 

533 


NORTHEAST  CONFERENCE 


to  the  Etna  Furnace.  In  1844  this  congregation  became  a  part 
of  the  Williamsburg  pastorate.  The  first  communion  services 
were  held  by  Rev.  Eyester  on  August  18,  1844.  Forty-two  names 
are  recorded  who  participated  in  this  ordinance,  three  of  whom 
he  confirmed  at  that  time.  It  is  presumable,  therefore,  that  he 
organized  with  thirty-nine  charter  members. 

On  August  14,  1857,  Mr.  Jacob  Henry  deeded  a  lot  of  ground 
to  this  congregation  on  which  to  erect  a  church  building,  for  the 
consideration  that  the  church  should  be  called  by  their  name, 
Henry's  Church.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  on  June  16,  1858. 
The  ministers  present  were  Revs.  Lloyd  Knight,  of  Hollidays- 
burg,  who  preached  the  sermon;  Seifert,  of  Martinsburg,  who 
opened  services ;  and  the  pastor,  A.  H.  Aughe.  A  collection  in 
money  and  subscriptions  was  taken,  amounting  to  $81.50.  The 
church  was  dedicated  on  October  24,  1858.  The  dedicatory  serv- 
ices began  on  Saturday  morning,  when  a  sermon  was  preached 
by  the  pastor ;  on  Saturday  evening,  Rev.  Crist,  of  Waterstreet, 
preached  to  the  congregation.  The  dedicatory  sermon  on  Sun- 
day morning  was  also  preached  by  Rev.  Crist.  Sufficient  money 
and  subscriptions  were  secured  at  this  service  to  cover  the  entire 
indebtedness.  The  church  is  a  one-story  frame  building,  40  by  47 
feet,  and  cost  $1,625.47.  The  pastor,  assisted  by  Revs.  Knight 
and  P.  P.  Lane,  continued  the  services  until  October  29. 

During  the  Summer  of  191 5  this  church  building  was  exten- 
sively remodeled  and  beautified,  at  a  cost  of  almost  $1,000,  giving 
it  a  very  neat  and  churchly  appearance.  It  was  rededicated  on 
September  12,  191 5.  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  missionary  super- 
intendent of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  preached  the  dedicatory  ser- 
mon. Money  and  subscriptions  were  received  to  the  amount  of 
$200  in  excess  of  all  indebtedness.  The  pastor,  Rev.  J.  M.  Rearick, 
dedicated  the  church. 

This  is  the  only  place  where  religious  services  are  held  in  the 
immediate  neighborhood  of  Yellow  Springs,  and  the  congregation 
has  always  been  a  strong  factor  in  moulding  the  sentiment  and 
character  of  the  community.  It  has  a  communicant  list  at  the 
present  time  of  seventy-one  members,  and  is  aggressive  and  har- 
monious. It  has  an  interesting  Sunday  school  and  Woman's 
Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society. 

For  list  of  pastors,  see  Williamsburg  congregation. 
534 


CLAPPERTOWN,  BLAIR  COUNTY 


Clappertown  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 
blair  county,  pa. 

As  early  as  1834,  Rev.  Jacob  Martin,  pastor  of  the  Williams- 
burg charge,  preached  at  the  Springfield  Furnace  schoolhouse, 
where  some  members  of  the  Williamsburg  congregation  lived. 
Springfield  Furnace  is  five  miles  southwest  of  Williamsburg. 
Rev.  Michael  Eyester  held  communion  services  in  this  school- 
house  as  early  as  1843.  His  successors  in  the  Williamsburg  pas- 
torate continued  to  preach  in  the  Springfield  schoolhouse  until  it 
was  found  that  Clappertown,  about  two  miles  southwest  from 
this  place,  afforded  a  better  opening  for  a  Lutheran  congrega- 
tion; the  place  of  preaching  was,  consequently,  changed  to  the 
Clapper  schoolhouse,  at  the  latter  place.  Just  when  this  change 
was  made  is  not  known. 

On  April  7,  1859,  Rev.  Abraham  H.  Aughe,  pastor  of  the  Wil- 
liamsburg charge,  organized  a  congregation  in  Henry  Clapper's 
schoolhouse.  A  constitution  was  adopted,  undersigned  by  twenty- 
nine  members,  and  the  proper  officers  were  elected.  For  a  period 
of  ten  years  this  new  congregation  continued  to  worship  in  the 
Clapper  schoolhouse. 

Mason  Howard  deeded  a  lot  of  ground  to  the  congregation 
and  immediate  steps  were  taken  to  erect  a  church  building.  The 
corner-stone  was  laid  in  1868,  and  the  church  was  dedicated  on 
June  20,  1869.  In  this  service,  the  pastor,  Rev.  Solomon  Mc- 
Henry,  was  assisted  by  Revs.  A.  H.  Aughe  and  Peter  Sheeder. 
The  church  is  a  one-story  frame  building  and  cost  about  $1,700. 

From  1865  to  1867  this  congregation  was  reported  by  the  Mar- 
tinsburg  pastor.  Rev.  Hooper,  of  said  pastorate,  held  communion 
services  for  this  congregation  in  October,  1865.  Rev.  J.  W. 
Schwartz,  of  the  same  pastorate,  reports  it  in  1866  and  1867.  In 
1868,  Rev.  Solomon  McHenry  again  reports  it  as  a  part  of  the 
Williamsburg  pastorate.  No  record  exists  how  these  changes 
were  made. 

The  congregation  at  present  reports  a  membership  of  fifty-six, 
a  Sunday  school  of  fifty-five,  and  a  Young  People's  Society. 

For  a  list  of  the  pastors  who  served  it,  see  the  Williamsburg 
congregation,  excepting  the  years  noted  above,  viz.:   1865-1867. 

535 


CHAPTER  XIII 

CHURCHES  OF  THE  SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 

ADDISON    (PETERSBURG) -CONFLUENCE 
PASTORATE 

Rev.  H.  C.  Summers,  Confluence,  Pa.,  Pastor 

St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  Addison,  Pa.  . 

Tradition  tells  us  that  the  first  Lutheran  minister  who  preached 
here  was  Rev.  John  Gottfried  Lambrath  (German,  Lampbrecht) 
from  Goettigen  Seminary,  Germany,  1811  to  1813.  He  belonged 
to  no  Synod.  The  early  history  of  this  congregation's  existence 
is  involved  in  flames,  together  with  the  house  and  contents  of  one 
of  the  members,  Brother  John  Stine,  one  of  the  officers  in  the 
Lutheran  Church,  who  had  it  for  safe  keeping.  It  is  claimed, 
however,  by  General  Ross  that  the  Lutheran  congregation  is  the 
oldest  in  this  community.  The  Rev.  Philip  Mockenhaupt  (his 
own  spelling),  M.D.,  perhaps  one  of  the  greatest  men,  was 
among  the  first  regular  pastors.  He  must  have  followed  the 
Rev.  Lampbrecht  very  closely  (perhaps  in  181 5  or  1817),  be- 
cause some  of  his  ministerial  work  is  our  evidence.  For  in- 
stance, we  have  here,  in  German  print  and  filled  out  in  German, 
the  baptism  certificate  of  Margaret,  daughter  of  Daniel  and 
Catherine  Long,  born  December  14,  1820,  and  baptized  January 
28,  1821,  at  the  age  of  forty-four  days.  This  child  grew  up  to 
womanhood  and  became  the  wife  of  Abraham  Augustine,  and 
lived  here  her  lifetime  until  December  1,  1910.  However,  it  has 
been  said  that  he  was  the  regular  pastor  previous  to  this  baptism 
record ;  how  long  we  cannot  tell.  He  then  had  an  organization 
and  catechised  the  young  and  confirmed  them,  and  held  the  Holy 
Supper,  and  with  all,  practiced  medicine.  In  former  years  he 
preached  about  Bedford,  Salisbury  and  other  places,  and  while 
preaching  here  he  preached  in  Preston  County,  W.  Va.,  and  in 
Maryland.  His  parochial  reports  are  lost  as  described  above. 
He  lived  in  Petersburg,  the  house  now  occupied  by  Jacob  Brown, 
and  died  here  on  April  15,  1832,  and  is  buried  in  the  Newberry 
536 


ST.  JOHN'S,  ADDISON 


Cemetery,  midway  between  Addison  and  Somerfield.  The  grave 
was  left  without  a  marker.  He  evidently  was  a  highly  educated 
man  and  a  fluent  speaker  and  dogmatist.  Both  these  men  men- 
tioned preached  in  schoolhouses,  houses,  barns  and  shade  trees 
for  a  number  of  years  before  a  church  edifice  was  erected,  as 
Mrs.  Augustine  also  testifies.  His  surgical  skill  is  well  shown 
in  his  saving  the  life  of  Alexander  Hannah,  who  was  disem- 
boweled in  a  fight.     In  warm  water  he  washed  and  revived  the 


ST.    JOHN^S    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    ADDISON,    PA. 


bowels,  uniting  the  severed  one  by  inserting  a  piece  of  tallow 
candle  as  a  support,  and  in  this  regard  anticipated  recent  surgery, 
in  its  discovery  of  the  value  of  similar  devices.  This  incident  is 
well  authenticated.  The  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler,  of  Berlin,  then 
served  this  congregation  as  a  supply  for  several  years.  The  corner- 
stone of  the  first  Lutheran  church  was  laid  June  15,  1832,  by 
Brother  Crigler.  This  was  a  two-story  log  building,  28  by  38 
feet,  galleries  on  three  sides.     This,  however,  was  not  finished 

537 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


until  some  time  later,  when,  in  the  nobleness  of  their  souls,  they 
deeded  the  one-half  interest  to  the  German  Reformed  and  Pres- 
byterians, for  the  paltry  sum  of  a  few  dollars,  to  help  complete 
the  building. 

The  first  deed  to  this  body  of  worshipers  was  made  June  12, 
1833,  by  Jacob  and  Mary  Augustine  to  Henry  Miller  and  Abra- 
ham Augustine,  trustees.  The  land  purchased  June  12,  1833, 
was  lot  No.  39  from  the  original  patent,  known  as  "the  sports- 
man," Brothers  Valley,  Bedford  County,  Pa.,  and  amounted  to 
one-half  acre.  The  price  paid  was  $55.  This  was  the  first 
house  of  worship  erected  in  Petersburg.  The  spot  on  which 
it  stood  is  now  in  the  old  burial  ground.  The  same  Abraham 
Augustine  was  a  life-long  member  and  officer  of  this  congrega- 
tion, helped  to  erect  three  Lutheran  churches  consecutively,  and 
donated  to  the  congregation  this  present  parsonage,  and  gave  one 
of  his  daughters,  Caroline,  as  wife  to  the  Rev.  John  W.  Tressler. 
The  old  charter  members  were  chiefly  the  Augustines,  Turneys, 
Swalps,  Royers,  Cummins,  Walters,  Steins,  Wilhelms,  Keims, 
Walkers,  etc.  Rev.  Crigler  resigned  April  1,  1834.  Then  Rev. 
George  Leiter,  of  Berlin,  preached  for  six  months.  Then  Rev. 
D.  Heilig,  of  Somerset,  preached ;  how  long  is  not  known.  Rev. 
William  Gibson  supplied  this  congregation  from  October,  1836, 
to  October,  1837.  With  all  the  discouragements  and  patience  of 
a  Job,  this  congregation  grew  to  be  a  power  for  good  in  the 
community.  The  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  of  Berlin,  supplied  until 
April  1,  1840.  In  1843,  the  Centerville  pastorate  comprised  Cen- 
terville,  Immanuel  and  Petersburg,  in  Pennsylvania,  and  Cove, 
Accident  and  Forks  (now  known  as  Bittinger),  Maryland.  After- 
wards others  in  Maryland  were  added  to  the  charge  and  some 
dropped.  April  1,  1845,  the  Rev.  Michael  F.  Pfahler  took 
charge  of  the  Centerville  pastorate.  In  1846,  he  resigned  the 
Centerville  and  Immanuel  congregations,  moved  to  Petersburg 
(Addison),  and  continued  to  serve  this  part  of  the  pastorate. 
Petersburg  is  the  place  where  all  pastors  lived  from  1846  to 
the  time  of  this  writing  (1911).  [The  sketches  of  St.  John's, 
St.  Paul's,  and  Ursina  are  largely  the  work  of  Rev.  M.  Gross- 
man.— Ed.] 

Michael  Snyder  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel,  March  27, 
185 1,  and  May  1,  185 1,  took  charge  of  the  Petersburg  pastorate. 
538 


ST.   JOHN'S,  ADDISON 


During  his  ministry,  two  lots  were  purchased  from  Robert 
Hunter  for  $100.  Upon  this  ground  was  the  second  Lutheran 
church  built,  the  corner-stone  of  which  was  laid  May  i,  and 
dedicated  October  i,  1853.  This  was  a  brick  structure,  40  by  50 
feet,  with  a  cupola  and  bell  in  it,  costing  about  $2,200.  His 
report  to  Synod  was:  Infants  baptized,  144;  additions,  199; 
money  raised,  $3,293.     He  resigned  May  1,  1859. 

The  Rev.  John  W.  Tressler  took  charge  November  26,  i860. 
He  also  added  more  than  100  members  the  first  year,  and  raised 
$1,542. 

At  this  time  the  pastorate  included  Petersburg,  Mt.  Zion  (Fay- 
ette County),  St.  Paul,  and  Accident,  in  Maryland.  During 
Brother  Tressler's  ministry  the  Lutheran  and  Reformed  con- 
gregations, through  him,  conjointly  petitioned  the  legislature  of 
Pennsylvania  to  empower  the  congregations  to  sell  the  old  union 
church  and  devote  the  proceeds  to  the  improvement  of  the  grave- 
yard, which  was  done.  The  proceeds  of  church,  pews  and  all 
was  about  $60.  He  resigned  November  1,  1862.  He  died  March 
5,  1907,  and  his  body  rests  in  this  cemetery.  April  1,  1863,  Rev. 
John  Beaver  began  to  preach  and  continued  till  February  26, 
1866.  The  same  year  he  was  dropped  from  the  office  of  the 
gospel  ministry  by  the  Alleghany  Synod.  June  16,  1866,  the  Rev. 
Peter  Gheen  took  charge  and  served  until  March  29,  1872.  Rev. 
William  Tryday  served  from  May  1,  1872,  until  April  1,  1874. 
Mr.  W.  H.  Singley,  a  student  of  Yale,  supplied  from  April  to 
August,  1874. 

Rev.  David  T.  Koser  took  charge  August  1,  1874,  and  preached 
here  until  April  1,  1877.  Brother  Koser  exceeded  all  the  other 
pastors  financially  by  raising  $3,435. 

Rev.  A.  M.  Smith,  September,  1877,  to  September,  1879. 

Rev.  A.  M.  Felton,  October  1,  1879,  to  February  1,  1881. 

Rev.  William  G.  Gettle,  July  1,  1 881,  to  February  13,  1883. 

Rev.  Samuel  J.  Taylor,  June  25,  1884,  to  April  1,  1886. 

Rev.  Ed.  L.  Folk,  August  5,  1886,  to  April  6,  1890. 

Rev.  I.  P.  Hawkins,  December  1,  1890,  to  April  1,  1893. 

During  his  ministry  the  third  Lutheran  church  edifice  was 
erected,  the  corner-stone  of  which  was  laid  July  22,  1891.  The 
pastor  was  assisted  by  Revs.  W.  H.  Settlemyer  and  M.  L.  Young, 
the    latter    delivering   the    sermon.      The    dedication    took   place 

539 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


April  24,  1892,  the  pastor  being  assisted  by  Revs.  M.  L.  Young 
and  David  T.  Koser.  This  is  a  beautiful  frame  structure  placed 
on  the  same  ground  as  the  former,  32  by  50  feet,  with  pulpit 
recess  and  a  65-foot  tower  with  bell.  The  windows  are  memo- 
rials of  fine  art  glass. 

Rev.  Henry  M.  Petrea,  1894  to  1897.  Rev.  James  E.  Zerger, 
1897  to  1901.  Rev.  William  H.  Hilbish,  January  1,  1903,  to 
October  17,  1904.  During  his  ministry  the  Confluence  congre- 
gation requested  a  division.  The  committee  appointed  for  the 
work  by  Alleghany  Synod  was  Revs.  A.  B.  Miller,  H.  C.  Salem 
and  S.  A.  Zimbeck.  The  result  was  Confluence  was  to  remain  by 
itself,  and  Rev.  William  H.  Hilbish  continued  as  the  pastor  at 
Confluence,  which  left  Petersburg,  Ursina  and  St.  Paul  to  con- 
stitute the  Addison  pastorate.  The  remaining  three  congregations 
called  Rev.  Moses  Grossman  to  the  charge,  December  18,  1904, 
which  he  accepted  at  a  salary  of  $550  and  parsonage.  His 
resignation  took  effect  March  20,  191 1.  He  left  the  congregations 
in  a  healthy  condition,  financially  and  spiritually.  The  charge 
was  supplied  by  a  licentiate,  Edmund  Manges,  summer  of  191 1. 
Pastors  since  have  been  Rev.  Boyer,  of  Confluence,  under  whom 
the  two  charges  were  again  united,  and  the  present  pastor.  Rev. 
H.  C.  Summers. 

When  the  Sunday  school  had  its  birth  we  cannot  tell.  General 
Moses  A.  Ross  has  in  his  diary  that  it  was  in  existence  prior  to 
1834.  (Its  early  records  are  burned  together  with  the  church 
records.)  Among  the  early  superintendents  were  John  Campbell 
and  Lott  Watson.  The  price  paid  for  the  first  parsonage  was 
$400.  It  was  secured  previous  to  1845,  now  l°ng  is  unknown. 
In  1853,  it  was  traded  for  the  present  one  by  paying  $500  differ- 
ence. 

This  congregation  furnished  the  church  with  three  ministers, 
namely,  John  W'elfley,  George  A.  Royer  and  Victor  G.  A. 
Tressler,  D.D.,  Ph.D.  Two  of  her  daughters  became  wives  of 
Lutheran  pastors,  viz. :  Miss  Caroline,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Abraham  Augustine,  wife  of  the  Rev.  John  W.  Tressler,  and 
Miss  Mary  E.  Campbell,  wife  of  the  Rev.  John  H.  Zinn.  D.D. 
The  deed  to  the  present  church  property  was  made  December  29, 
1852,  by  Robert  Hunter  and  Suffiah,  his  wife,  to  Jacob  Wilhelm, 
Peter  Augustine  (of  Frederick)  and  John  P.  H.  Walker,  trustees 
540 


ST.   JOHN'S,  ADDISON 


of  the  Lutheran  church.  The  consideration  of  lot  on  which  the 
church  stands,  $100.  The  deeds  to  the  lots  of  church  and  par- 
sonage, which  were  found  among  the  papers  of  Jacob  Wilhelm 
(deceased)  and  Abraham  Augustine  (deceased)  were  recorded 
June  20,  1903,  fifty-three  years  after  their  execution.  The  deed 
of  the  present  parsonage  was  executed  October,  1854,  by  Bar- 
nabus  Dewitt  and  wife  to  Jacob  Wilhelm,  Peter  Augustine  and 
Abraham  Augustine,  trustees  of  the  said  church;  consideration, 
$400.    This  deed  was  recorded  fifty-one  years  after  its  execution. 

St.  Paul's,  or  Ringer  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
In  the  year  1846,  the  Rev.  Michael  F.  Pfahler  began  to  preach 
occasionally  in  the  schoolhouse,  which  stood  near  the  place  where 
the  present  church  stands,  known  as  the  Ringer  School,  and 
the  latter  part  of  his  ministry  here,  began  to  preach  more  fre- 
quently, having  served  here  for  six  years.  The  Rev.  Michael 
Snyder  began  to  preach  regularly  for  this  people,  and  on  June  28, 
1854,  they  organized  themselves  into  a  congregation,  with  twenty- 
eight  charter  members,  by  adopting  the  doctrine  and  practices  of 
the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church.  (One  of  the  charter  members 
is  still  here,  viz.:  Brother  Dietrich  Shoemaker,  1911).  The  same 
day  of  organization  there  was  held  an  election  of  church  officers, 
which  resulted  in  the  following  persons  being  elected :  Elder, 
Christian  Gottman ;  deacons,  Andrew  Turney  and  Harrison 
Sterner.  These  officers  were  installed  July  23,  1854.  This 
people  meant  business  in  the  Lord's  vineyard,  because  the  same 
day  of  the  organization  they  laid  the  corner-stone  of  their  new 
house  of  worship.  In  the  same  year,  November  26,  this  house  of 
worship  was  dedicated  to  the  Triune  God.  It  was  a  one-story 
frame  building,  24  by  30  feet,  and  cost  about  $700.  The  lot  of 
ground  was  donated  by  Christian  Gottman.  The  first  communion 
w.as  held  on  November  26,  1854.  This  first  edifice  served  for  a 
period  of  fifty-two  years,  when  the  time  came  for  a  more  capa- 
cious building  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Moses  Grossman. 
These  good  people  saw  the  need  of  a  new  house  of  worship, 
solicited  each  other's  contribution,  and  in  the  spring  of  1906, 
the  old  church  was  moved  aside,  but  the  regular  services  were 
held  in  it  during  the  erection  of  the  new  edifice.  The  corner- 
stone was  presented  by  Mary  Jane  Augustine,  of  Addison,  and 

541 


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was  laid  Ascension  Day,  May  24,  1906.  The  late  Rev.  John  W. 
Tressler  preached  the  sermon  from  Isaiah  28:  16.  It  was  dedi- 
cated June  16,  1907.  Previous  to  dedication,  services  were  held, 
with  sermons  by  a  former  pastor,  H.  M.  Petrea;  Rev.  Slonaker, 
of  Confluence ;  Rev.  Carney,  of  Garrett ;  Rev.  Patterson,  of  Som- 
erset. Rev.  Petrea  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  Rev.  Pat- 
terson  conducted   the   finances   and   the   necessary   amount   was 


ST.    PAULS    LUTHERAN    CHURCH 


paid  in  cash.  The  house  and  furniture  cost  $3,500.  This  truly 
is  a  credit  to  this  people  and  an  honor  to  Almighty  God.  The 
size  of  building  is  35  by  45  feet,  with  fine  art  glass  memorial 
windows  and  a  spire  containing  an  800-pound  bell,  presented  by 
Jasper  Augustine.  An  additional  plot  of  ground,  containing 
twenty-one  perches,  was  purchased  for  a  burial  ground,  October 
16,  1886,  for  the  sum  of  $150,  from  Isaac  Davis  and  wife,  Sophia, 
542 


TRINITY,  URSINA 


to  be  held  in  trust  by  the  trustees  of  St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Church. 
All  pastors  of  the  Addison  pastorate,  beginning  with  Rev. 
Pfahler  to  the  present  have  served  this  congregation.  St.  Paul's 
congregation  furnished  one  daughter  as  wife  for  a  Lutheran 
pastor,  viz. :  Miss  Catharine,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Andrew  J. 
Cramer,  to  Rev.  Henry  M.  Petrea ;  also  one  son,  viz.:  Victor 
Nevin  Miller.  St.  Paul's  Sunday  school  had  its  origin  in  a 
schoolhouse  about  six  years  prior  to  the  organization  of  the  con- 
gregation and  erection  of  the  first  church  building.  David  Robin- 
son was  the  first  superintendent,  so  far  as  is  known ;  Isaac  Davis 
was  also  one  of  the  first  superintendents.  This  school,  on  account 
of  the  scattered  people,  has  been  reorganized  each  spring,  and 
continued  for  but  nine  months. 

» 

Trinity  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  Ursina,  Pa. 
Trinity  Lutheran  Church,  Ursina,  was  organized  A.  D.  1795, 
in  Turkeyfoot  Township,  the  second  township  of  the  new  county, 
having  been  formed  from  Brothers  Valley  Township,  A.  D.  1773. 
Among  the  list  of  taxpayers  in  A.  D.  1796,  we  find  persons  with 
whom  we  have  to  deal,  namely,  David  Ankeny,  James  Campbell, 
Thomas  Mitchel,  William  Tissue  and  David  Ream.  The  early 
settlers  in  this  section,  aside  from  the  Jersey  colony,  came  mainly 
from  the  Kittanning  Valley,  from  Maryland  and  Virginia.  Fol- 
lowing the  old  Turkeyfoot  road  down  Whites  Creek  to  the  Cas- 
tleman  River,  which  it  crossed  near  Harnedtsville,  crossed  the 
Hog-back  Ridge,  where  Ursina  now  is,  thence  across  Laurel  Hill 
Creek,  where  the  old  stockade  stood,  and  up  the  Lick  River  to 
Steward's  Crossing,  near  Connellsville.  On  the  south  side  of 
Hog-back  Ridge  passes  another  noted  highway,  crossing  the 
former  road  midway  between  Harnedtsville  and  Ursina  on  what 
was  lately  the  farm  of  Joseph  B.  Davis.  A  number  of  people  set- 
tled at  this  cross-road  and  decided  to  have  a  schoolhouse  and  a 
church.  The  following  is  found  in  the  recorder's  office,  Somerset, 
deed  book,  volume  four,  page  395  :  "The  condition  of  the  above 
obligation  is  such  that  whereas  the  said  David  Ream  hath  sold 
unto  the  said  trustees,  above  named,  of  the  Dutch  and  English 
churches  (meaning  congregations),  a  certain  piece  of  land  con- 
taining one  acre,  which  is  to  be  six  rods  broad  and  the  rest  in 
length,  situated  in   Somerset  County,  in   Turkeyfoot  Township, 

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SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


called  and  known  by  name  of  the  Cross-roads,  including  the 
schoolhouse  in  the  northwest  side  of  the  road.  Now,  the  said 
David  Ream  shall  and  truly  convey  unto  the  said  trustees  of  the 
English  and  Dutch  Presbyterian  and  Lutheran  churches,  or  their 
successors,  by  a  sufficient  deed  of  warrantee,  the  above  men- 
tioned land,  with  its  appurtenance,  on  or  before  June  4,  1801, 
provided  all  the  purchase  money  shall  be  by  them  completely  paid 
unto  the  said  David  Ream,  his  heirs,  then  the  above  to  be  void, 
else  to  remain  in  full  force  and  power  and  value  in  law.  Signed, 
sealed  and  delivered  in  the  presence  of  witnesses,  Jacob  Metzgar, 


THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH    OF    URSINA,    PA. 

William  De  Haven  and  Thomas  Johnston.  This  purchase  was 
made  September  17,  1800.  Received  by  the  hands  of  the 
trustees,  the  full  sum  of  four  pounds  and  ten  shillings,  it  being 
the  sum  of  the  purchase  money  of  said  land;  I  say  received  by 
me  (David  Ream)."  In  deed  book,  volume  six,  pages  I75"I77- 
Deed  dated  June  5,  1813.  This  was  acknowledged  the  same  day, 
and  recorded  June  22,  1813.  This  contract  between  David  Ream 
and  the  parties  above  named,  and  Jacob  Brunner,  trustees  of  the 
Presbyterian  and  Lutheran  congregations,  was  unexecuted,  and 
this  deed  was  made  under  order  of  court  to  execute  the  same. 
544 


TRINITY,  URSINA 


A  "Presbyterian"  (German  Reformed)  and  Lutheran  Church  was 
built  here,  and  services  were  held  in  it  many  years  before  the 
second  schoolhouse  was  built,  but  it  was  consumed  by  fire.  The 
oldest  man  living  in  Addison  Township  (David  Mitchell,  being 
eighty-nine  years  in  191 1 ) ,  says  "that  when  a  lad  I  frequently 
attended  services  there  in  the  old  log  church."  He  lived  there  his 
entire  lifetime ;  so  did  his  father.  Another  evidence  of  a  place 
of  worship  there  is  the  old  graveyard  containing  several  hundred 
graves,  at  the  six  poplars  which  are  near  the  cross-roads.  Three 
generations  by  the  name  of  Richard  Green  are  buried  here ;  the 
first  died  1808;  the  last  1827.  So  far  we  were  unable  to  obtain 
a  record  of  the  former  pastors.  The  "Presbyterians"  must  either 
have  removed  or  died.  At  least  we  have  no  record  of  them  for 
more  than  fifty  years  of  their  existence.  The  first  infant  bap- 
tism on  record  is  Daniel  Sheriden  Swarner,  November  18,  1866, 
by  the  Rev.  Peter  Gheen ;  parents,  Daniel  and  Susannah.  The 
first  person  confirmed,  on  record,  is  Augustus  Davis,  September 

22,  1866.     The  first  communion  on  record  was  held  September 

23,  1866,  with  a  membership  of  twenty-nine.  The  first  council 
was :  Elders,  John  Davis  and  Israel  Welfley ;  deacons,  John 
P.  H.  Walker  and  Jonathan  Bowman. 

Rev.  Jno.  Beaver,  pastor  of  the  Addison  pastorate,  began  to 
preach  in  the  schoolhouse  in  1863.  During  the  ministry  of  Rev. 
Peter  Gheen  in  1869  this  congregation  divided,  some  members 
moved  across  the  ridge  to  Ursina,  that  town  having  a  boom,  on 
account  of  the  passing  through  of  the  B.  &  O.  R.  R.  Here  the 
schoolhouse  was  occupied  for  awhile.  Two  lots  were  donated  to 
the  Lutherans  by  Judge  William  Bear  of  Somerset,  and  deeded 
to  the  trustees  and  building  committee,  consisting  of  John  P.  H. 
Walker,  John  B.  Davis,  Joseph  Lichty  and  Arnold  Kuhlman. 
The  corner-stone  of  the  present  house  of  worship  at  Ursina  was 
laid  October  16,  1870.  The  basement  was  finished  and  occupied 
by  the  Sunday  school  and  divine  services  for  four  years,  at  which 
time  the  auditorium  was  completed,  and  dedicated  October  25, 
1874,  by  the  pastor,  David  T.  Koser,  assisted  by  Rev.  Whetstone. 
The  church  is  a  one-story  structure,  40  by  60  feet,  with  base- 
ment, and  cost  $2,300.  All  the  pastors  of  this  congregation, 
beginning  with  Rev.  John  Beaver,  are  mentioned  in  the  Addison 
report.    The  present  edifice  has  a  neat  belfry  with  bell,  was  twice 

545 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


struck  by  lightning  within  two  years  and  had  the  trial  of  a  law- 
suit, on  account  of  the  one  lot  donated  by  Judge  William  Bear. 
Regular  bi-weekly  services  are  held.  There  is  a  Sunday  school 
and  a  Young  People's  Society  Christian  Endeavor.  This  congre- 
gation furnished  three  Lutheran  ministers  with  wives,  viz. :  Miss 
Jennie,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  P.  H.  Walker,  to  Rev. 
Abel  Tompson ;  and  Miss  Mabel  and  Miss  Edna,  daughters  of 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  W.  S.  Kuhlman,  to  Rev.  M.  L.  Clare  and  Rev.  Prof. 
R.  A.  Wentz,  respectively.  The  exact  date  of  the  origin  of 
the  Trinity  (Ursina)  Lutheran  Sunday  school,  started  at  the 
Cross-roads,  is  not  definitely  known,  but  thought  to  be  sometime 


W.    S.    KUHLMAN,    M.D.  J.    B.    DAVIS 

in  the  summer  of  1866,  with  Brother  Israel  Welfley  as  super- 
intendent. He  held  this  position  for  a  number  of  years,  until  the 
town  of  Ursina  was  built;  since  then  Brother  Joseph  B.  Davis 
has  served  in  this  capacity. 

Trinity  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  Confluence,  Pa. 
The  following  subscribers,  John  Reiber,  Israel  Welfley,  Philip 
Stein,  Decatur  Welfley,  Henry  Royer,  H.  W.  Hitzrat,  Mary  A. 
Stein,  Hester  Ann  Humbert,  Jonas  Humbert,  Adam  R.  Humbert, 
Henry  Valentine,  Kate  Valentine,  Susan  Walker,  Eliza  Hine- 
baugh,  Harriet  Nicholson  and  Mary  Jane  Boettner,  drew  up  and 
546 


TRINITY,  CONFLUENCE 


presented  to  the  honorable  judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas 
of  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  on  September  20,  1871,  a  petition 
whereby  they  might  be  granted  by  the  court  a  charter  for  the 
incorporation  of  an  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  in  Confluence. 
The  petition  was  granted  at  next  meeting  of  court.  These  per- 
sons had  been  members  of  the  Cross-roads,  whose  membership 
of  thirty  divided  and  became  the  beginning  of  this  and  the  Ursina 
congregations,  1870,  moving  to  the  towns  because  of  the  B.  &  O. 
Railroad  boom.  The  first  structure  erected  by  this  body  for  wor- 
ship was  a  frame  building,  55  by  35  feet,  costing  $2,200,  on  the 
corner  of  Charles  and  Odin  Streets,  built  by  Adam  Humbert. 
The  corner-stone  was  laid  by  Pastor  Gheen,  October  9,   1870. 


r  - '  . 

'1 

11 

1        1 

. 

TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,,    CONFLUENCE,    PA. 

It  was  dedicated  by  Rev.  J.  Tomlinson,  of  Alleghany  Synod,  and 
Pastor  Gheen,  October  1,  1871.  The  first  council  in  the  old 
church,  appointed  September  20,  1871,  was  John  Reiber,  Israel 
Welfley,  Joseph  Commins  and  Henry  Rover.  This  served  as  the 
place  of  worship  until  April  17,  1904,  when  the  brick  building 
now  standing  was  dedicated.  The  style  is  Gothic,  65  by  45  feet, 
divided  into  two  rooms,  with  pastor's  study  attached,  and  has 
beautiful  memorial  windows.     Revs.  R.  S.  Patterson  and  J.  W. 

5-17 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Poffenberger  assisted  the  pastor  on  the  occasion  of  the  dedica- 
tion. The  old  building  was  torn  down  and  the  new  one  erected 
on  the  same  lot  at  a  cost  of  $7,000.  August  28,  1904,  this  con- 
gregation began  efforts  toward  a  separation  from  the  Addison 
charge.  This  they  accomplished  two  months  later,  October  17, 
calling  Rev.  Hilbish,  then  pastor  at  Addison,  as  their  first  pastor. 
The  Synod  of  Alleghany  approved,  and  the  congregation  received 
Home  Mission  funds  for  three  years,  and  then  became  self- 
sustaining. 

The  committee  appointed  for  building  of  this  church  was : 
E.  E.  McDonald,  Hiram  Frantz,  G.  G.  Groff,  A.  C.  Miller  and 
N.  H.  Crow ;  and  the  first  council  was :  G.  G.  Groff,  Hiram 
Frantz,  William  Reiber  and  E.  E.  McDonald.  The  congregation 
was  served  by  Rev.  Hilbish  until  October  28,  1906.  Supplies 
were  then  called  until  March  31,  1907,  when  Rev.  W.  G.  Slonaker 
became  pastor,  serving  until  December  31,  1908.  From  this  date 
until  May  22,  1910,  no  regular  pastor  was  on  the  field,  but  sup- 
plies were  had  when  possible.  On  May  22,  1910,  Rev.  E.  B. 
Boyer,  newly  graduated  from  Gettysburg  Seminary,  became 
pastor.  He  left  the  congregation  free  of  all  debt  and  in  a  pros- 
perous condition.  A  Christian  Endeavor  Society  was  organized 
in  June,  1910,  with  twenty  members,  and  continues.  A  Sunday 
school  was  organized  in  1870,  with  Adam  Humbert  as  superin- 
tendent. Officers  and  teachers  not  known.  Superintendents 
since  Adam  Humbert  were  Dr.  W.  S.  Mountain,  G.  G.  Groff, 
E.  E.  McDonald  and  Lloyd  Kurtz. 

Pastors  who  served  this  congregation  prior  to  the  separation 
from  the  Addison  charge :  Rev.  Peter  Gheen,  from  organization 
to  1872;  Rev.  W.  Try  day,  1872  to  1874;  Rev.  David  T.  Koser, 
1874  to  1877;  Rev.  A.  M.  Smith,  1877  to  1880;  Rev.  A.  K. 
Felton,  1880  to  1881  ;  Rev.  W.  G.  Gettle,  1881  to  1885;  Rev.  S. 
J.  Taylor,  1885  to  1887;  Rev.  Ed.  L.  Folk,  1887  to  1892;  Rev. 
I.  P.  Hawkins,  1892  to  1894;  Rev.  H.  M.  Petrea,  1894  to  1897; 
Rev.  J.  E.  Zerger,  1897  to  1902;  Rev.  W.  11.  Hilbish,  1902  to 
1904. 

Pastors  since  separation:  Rev.  W.  H.  Hilbish,  1904  to  Octo- 
ber 28,  1906;  Rev.  W.  G.  Slonaker,  March  3T,  1907,  to  Decem- 
ber 31,  1908;  Rev.  E.  B.  Boyer,  May  22.  1910,  to  1916.  The 
four  congregations  reunited  into  the  Addison-Confluence  charge, 
548 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  BERLIN 


under  the  zealous  Pastor  Boyer,  in  191 5,  and  thus  strengthened 
are  able  to  support  a  pastor  comfortably  and  encouragingly  in  his 
arduous  labors.  H.  C.  Summers  began  his  work  early  in  1917, 
and  resigned  November  I,  19 17. 


THE  TRINITY  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

BERLIN,    PA. 

Rev.  H.  B.  Burkholder,  Pastor 
The  history  of  this  congregation  covers  a  period  of  140  years. 
Of  the  first  fifteen  years  of  this  period  little  is  known.  Here, 
as  in  many  localities  where  the  early  settlers  were  Germans,  you 
find  the  union  of  the  Lutheran  and  Reformed  Churches.  The 
oldest  church  record  extant  was  purchased  for  both  denomina- 
tions. This  is  the  oldest  church  record  in  Somerset  County.  On 
the  first  page  is  written:  "Church  book  for  both- congregations : 
Evangelical  Lutheran  and  Evangelical  Reformed,  in  the  Glade, 
Bedford  County,  Province  of  Pennsylvania" ;  then  interlined, 
"Brothers  Valley  Township" ;  "Written  in  the  year  of  our  Re- 
deemer, Jesus  Christ,  1777." 

Then  follows  an  account  of  the  first  building  erected  for  edu- 
cational and  religious  purposes :  "Both  the  above-named  con- 
gregations have  in  the  above-named  year  united  together  to  build 
a  good  schoolhouse  to  have  their  children  instructed  in  the  word 
and  grace  of  God !  Also,  on  certain  days,  to  hold  public  worship 
in  it,  as  well  as  reading  of  sermons  on  Sunday  by  the  school- 
teacher ;  or  other  religious  books  by  a  person  who  is  a  member 
of  one  of  the  congregations ;  also  at  certain  times  to  preach  in 
it  by  certain  ministers  of  the  honorable  Reform  Classes  and 
Ministerium,  who  pay  us  a  visit  and  also  attend  to  the  sacrament 
until  either  congregation  is  in  a  condition  to  build  a  comfortable 
church." 

It  is  a  fact  worthy  of  note,  that  these  Fathers  considered  re- 
ligion fundamental  in  education.  Hence  the  provision  they  made 
for  religious  education.  And  we  believe  we  are  true  to  the  Bible, 
and  true  to  the  best  traditions  of  our  Church,  when  we  unite 
religion  and  education. 

Whether  a  Lutheran  pastor  labored  in  this  field  prior  to  the 
above  date  is  unknown.     Baptisms  are  recorded  previous  to  this 

549 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


time,  but  who  performed  them  is  not  stated.  We  have  the  record 
of  John  Wolf  Litzel,  who  was  the  first  minister  to  labor  within 
the  bounds  of  the  Alleghany  Synod.  The  following  is  a  part  of 
what  is  written  in  the  record :  "Nomine  Domini  Patris  Filius 
Spiritus :  Soli  Dei  Gloria,  written  by  me,  ordained  teacher  and 
preacher  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  doctrine  according  to  the 
Augsburg  Confession.     J.  W.  Litzel." 

It  is  a  remarkable   fact  that  so  early  in  the  history  of   our 


TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    BERLIN,    PA. 


Church  we  should  have  a  man  who  declared  his  adherence  to  the 
Augsburg  Confession.  It  is  even  more  remarkable  when  we 
remember  that  this  record  was  for  both  the  Reformed  and 
Lutheran  Churches.  This  was  forty-three  years  before  the  Gen- 
eral Synod  was  organized,  and  thirty-five  years  after  Muhlenberg 
reached  Philadelphia  to  begin  his  great  work  for  the  Lutheran 
Church  in  America. 

It  is  supposed  that  Rev.  Litzel  labored  here  until  sometime  in 
550 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  BERLIN 


the  eighties.  Whether  an  organization  was  effected  during  his 
stay  here  we  have  no  means  of  knowing. 

"On  April  4,  1786,  the  Supreme  Executive  Council  of  Pennsyl- 
vania granted  to  Jacob  Keffer,  in  trust  for  the  Calvinist  and 
Lutheran  Churches  for  the  use  of  schools,  a  tract  of  land  con- 
taining forty  and  one-half  acres  (of  land),  on  the  headwaters  of 
Stony  Creek,  upon  which  said  Calvinistic  and  Lutheran  congre- 
gations had  laid  out  a  town  calling  it  Berlin" ;  (the  settlers  were 
from  Prussia)  ;  "the  name  of  the  tract  of  land  was  (named) 
'Pious  Springs'." 

"On  April  22,  1789,  a  charter  was  obtained  from  the  Common- 
wealth of  Pennsylvania,  signed  by  Governor  Thomas  McKean, 
for  the  addition  to  Berlin,  whereby  the  proprietors  of  said  addi- 
tion gave  the  ground  rent  of  one  Spanish  milled  dollar  yearly, 
to  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  of  Berlin,  forever." 
The  congregation  receives  an  annual  income  of  $94  from  this 
provision. 

In  the  office,  of  the  Recorder  of  Deeds  of  Bedford  County  is 
found  the  record  of  the  division  of  the  Church  property  between 
the  Lutheran  and  Reformed  Churches  of  Berlin.  This  was 
effected  by  lot.  Lots  numbered  34,  35  and  36  fell  to  the  Lu- 
therans; lots  numbered  61,  62  and  63  fell  to  the  Reformed. 
The  old  schoolhouse,  by  this  method,  came  into  the  possession  of 
the  Reformed.  It  was  estimated  to  be  worth  twenty  pounds. 
Both  congregations  were  to  hold  possession  until  the  Reformed 
paid  the  Lutherans  ten  pounds. 

We  now  enter  the  period  of  historic  certainty.  In  the  year 
1789,  Michael  Steg  [English,  Steck]  became  pastor  of  the  Berlin 
charge.  A  new  church  record  was  purchased  for  the  sole  use  of  the 
Lutheran  congregation,  at  a  cost  of  six  shillings  and  four  pence. 
From  the  record  it  would  appear  that  Rev.  Steg  received  seventy- 
five  persons  into  the  church  during  his  pastorate.  Whether  this 
number  constituted  the  entire  membership  is  difficult  to  deter- 
mine. 

Rev.  Steg  resigned  the  charge  in  1792,  and  was  succeeded  by 
Rev.  Frederick  William  Lange.  It  was  during  his  ministry  that 
the  first  Lutheran  Church  was  built,  in  1800.  It  was  a  two-story 
log  building  with  a  gallery  on  three  sides.  The  pulpit  was  of 
large  dimensions  and  elevated,  according  to  the  style  of  that  day. 

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The  size  and  cost  of  the  church  is  unknown.  The  bell  then  in 
use  was  cast  in  Amsterdam  in  1753.  In  1808,  Jacob  Fisher,  Jacob 
Keffer  and  others  of  this  congregation  emigrated  to  Sherwood, 
Canada,  and  established  a  Lutheran  Church,  a  child  of  this  con- 
gregation. 

Rev.  Lange  died  in  Somerset  in  the  beginning  of  the  year  1812, 
and  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Ernest  Henry  Tiedeman.  From  the 
old  records  it  would  seem  he  was  first  appointed  by  the  Penn- 
sylvania Synod  to  take  charge  of  the  churches  in  Somerset 
County.  Whether  this  appointment  contemplated  all  the  Lutheran 
Churches  in  the  county  we  do  not  know.  But  in  1813  we  find 
the  following  churches  elected  him  as  their  pastor  and  gave  him 
a  call :  Somerset,  Berlin,  Stoyestown,  New  Centerville  and  San- 
ner.  In  the  year  1818  the  charge  was  divided  and  Rev.  Tiede- 
man's  labors  ceased  in  this  field. 

In  April,  1819,  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler  visited  the  charge  composed 
of  the  following  churches :  Berlin,  Pine  Hill,  Comps,  Wills' 
Creek,  Shafer's,  Mull's,  Stony  Creek,  Gebhard's  and  Sanner's. 

His  labors  bore  magnificent  results.  In  the  fall  of  1819  and 
the  winter  of  1820,  there  was  a  religious  awakening,  as  a  result 
of  which  many  were  converted,  and  the  spiritual  condition  of 
the  people  was  greatly  revived. 

On  January  1,  1825,  Rev.  Crigler  and  John  Fletcher,  with  a 
few  other  persons,  organized  a  Sunday  school  in  the  Lutheran 
Church — the  first  Sunday  school  of  any  denomination  in  Somer- 
set County.  Mr.  Peter  Lane  was  the  first  superintendent.  From 
its  organization  Mr.  Fletcher  took  a  very  active  part  in  the  Sun- 
day school ;  and  in  his  old  age,  when  he  could  no  longer  attend, 
he  delighted  to  sit  at  his  window  and  watch  the  children  go  to 
and  from  it.  At  his  death  he  bequeathed  the  sum  of  $2,140,  the 
interest  of  which  is  to  be  used  to  purchase  Bibles,  New  Testa- 
ments and  sacred  literature  for  the  Sunday  school.  Every  scholar 
attending  is  presented  with  a  Bible.  By  an  act  of  the  Legislature, 
$800  of  this  bequest  was  used,  in  1846,  to  erect  the  brick  Sunday 
school  room.  Though  dead,  this  good  man  lives  through  this 
generous  bequest.  And  we  believe  many  persons  have  learned 
to  love  their  Bibles  more  dearly  because  of  this  thoughtful 
provision.  In  1875  the  semi-centennial  of  the  Sunday  school  was 
celebrated.  Intense  interest  was  manifested.  This  was  shown 
552 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  BERLIN 


by  the  large  number  of  persons  who  attended  the  services. 
The  history  of  the  Sunday  school  has  been  marked  by  constant 
growth  and  development.  It  has  been  a  mighty  factor  for  good 
in  the  church  and  the  community.  Out  of  it  have  gone  men 
and  women  who  are  filling  prominent  positions  in  every  sphere 
of  life.  It  is  a  fact  worthy  of  note  that  for  sixty  years  this  Sunday 
school  held  two  sessions  every  Sunday ;  one  in  the  morning  and 
one  in  the  afternoon. 

An  event  of  more  than  passing  interest  was  the  meeting  of  the 
West  Pennsylvania  Synod  in  the  Berlin  Church,  on  September  9, 
1826.  This  was  the  second  regular  meeting  of  the  Synod.  The 
minutes  record  the  sum  of  $7.50,  which  the  Berlin  congregation 
contributed  at  the  Chambersburg  meeting  in  1825.  This  meeting 
at  Berlin  was  the  first  Synodical  meeting  held  on  what  is  now 
the  territory  of  the  Alleghany  Synod.  Two  young  men  were 
ordained  to  the  gospel  ministry.  The  occasion  was  one  of  solemn 
and  impressive  moment.  "The  house  was  as  silent  as  the  grave. 
It  appeared  as  though  the  house  was  filled  with  breathless  beings." 
"Never  was  Synod  entertained  with  a  more  cordial  welcome, 
and  at  no  time  was  the  word  of  God  listened  to  with  more  atten- 
tion than  at  this  time  at  Berlin." 

Rev.  Crigler  resigned  the  Berlin  charge  April  1,  1834.  His 
ministry  extends  over  a  period  of  fifteen  years  and  was  unu- 
sually blessed.  He  left  his  impress  upon  the  congregation  for  all 
time.  There  were  blended  in  his  personality  elements  that  make 
strong  characters.  He  was  a  close  student  of  God's  word,  and 
represented  in  his  life  and  preaching  the  best  traditions  of  our 
beloved  Church.  The  pietistic  element  found  in  this  congrega- 
tion, in  the  middle  of  the  last  century,  was  due  largely  to  his 
influence.  He  laid  the  foundation  upon  which  the  future  of  the 
church  grew.     His  works  truly  follow  him. 

On  December  11,  1852,  a  congregational  meeting  was  held  to 
consider  the  advisability  of  erecting  a  new  church.  At  a  subse- 
quent meeting  the  report  of  the  committee  appointed  to  present 
plans,  specifications  and  cost,  was  adopted.  The  contract  was 
given  to  Jacob  Zorn.  The  building,  65  by  45  feet,  was  built  of 
brick,  with  a  basement  under  the  whole  church.  The  audience 
room  was  to  be  eighteen  feet  high.  The  building  was  to  be  com- 
pleted in  1853  and  was  to  cost  $2,145.    The  corner-stone  was  laid, 

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and  the  church  was  dedicated  in  1853;  the  dates  not  given.  This 
second  church  was  built  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Elias  Fair, 
who  served  the  congregation  for  five  years. 

Special  mention  should  be  made  of  the  services  and  work  of 
Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff.  He  served  this  congregation  at  two  differ- 
ent times.  His  first  pastorate  covered  the  years  of  1844-1846, 
and  his  second  pastorate  the  years  of  1864-1872.  He  was  a  man 
of  scholarly  attainments,  of  deep  piety,  and  of  fervent  zeal  for 
the  cause  of  Christ.  It  was  largely  through  his  ministry  that  a 
number  of  young  men  entered  college  and  seminary  to  prepare 
themselves  for  the  gospel  ministry,  Revs.  B.  B.  Collins,  W.  E. 
Fischer,  D.D.,  and  John  Brubaker,  D.D.,  having  prepared  for 
college  under  his  teaching.  These  men  have  all  done  splendid 
work  for  the  Master. 

Rev.  Winecoff  was  held  in  the  highest  esteem  by  his  brethren 
and  was  revered  by  his  members.  When  he  died,  at  Lavansville, 
through  the  solicitation  of  the  members  of  the  Berlin  congrega- 
tion he  was  buried  in  the  Odd  Fellows'  Cemetery,  at  Berlin. 
The  beautiful  monument  which  marks  his  grave,  costing  about 
$500,  was  erected  by  the  members  of  the  Berlin  pastorate.  It 
is  worthy  of  note  that  Mr.  Gardill,  not  a  member  of  the  Lutheran 
Church,  was  active  in  soliciting  funds  for  this  worthy  project. 
The  following  inscription  on  the  monument  tells  its  own  -story : 
"This  monument  is  erected  by  the  friends  of  the  deceased,  and 
members  of  the  Berlin  charge  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  as  a  token  of  esteem." 

During  the  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  A.  M.  Strauss  the  north  wing 
of  the  Sunday  school  building  was  erected  at  a  cost  of  $500. 
This  addition  made  the  room  much  more  convenient  and  added 
greatly  to  its  comfort. 

Rev.  John  W.  Poffenberger  became  pastor  of  the  Berlin  charge 
July  11,  1875.    He  served  the  charge  for  ten  years. 

At  the  meeting  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  the  Berlin  Church, 
in  1880,  the  Synodical  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary 
Society  was  organized.  At  the  same  time  the  local  organization 
was  effected.  The  first  officers  of  this  Woman's  Society  were: 
President,  Mrs.  Daniel  H.  Ault ;  secretary,  Miss  Olive  Hefrley ; 
corresponding  secretary,  Miss  Annie  M.  Hefrley ;  treasurer,  Mrs. 
A.  C.  Floto.  With  the  exception  of  a  short  period,  it  has  had  a 
554 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN,  BERLIN 


continuous  existence.  It  has  always  been  one  of  the  strongest 
societies  of  the  Synod  and  has  been  aggressive  in  missionary 
work. 

In  the  winter  of  1908-1909  the  Young  Woman's  Home  and 
Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized.  A  little  later  a  Mis- 
sion Band  came  into  existence.  The  Senior  Society  has  a  cradle 
roll  of  about  seventy-four  members. 

It  was  also  during  Rev.  Poffenberger 's  pastorate  that  the  Som- 
erset County  Lutheran  Sunday  School  Association  was  founded, 
in  the  Berlin  Lutheran  Church,  in  1876.  Rev.  Poffenberger  was 
very  active  in  its  formation  and  was  one  of  the  leading  spirits  in 
its  early  history.  The  immediate  success  of  the  association  was 
largely  due  to  his  efforts. 

Rev.  Poffenberger  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Charles  B.  Gruver. 
The  numerical  strength  of  the  congregation  demanded  a  new  and 
larger  church.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  June  8,  1889,  and  the 
church  was  dedicated  June  29,  1890.  Rev.  J.  W.  Menges,  of 
Philadelphia,  and  Rev.  W.  E.  Fischer,  D.D.,  of  Center  Hall,  Pa., 
assisted  the  pastor  in  the  services.  The  church  was  dedicated 
free  of  debt,  although  costing,  including  furnishings,  $13,630.61. 
Mr.  J.  J.  Zorn  was  the  contractor,  while  the  building  committee 
was  composed  of  Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver,  Mr.  D.  G.  Reitz  and  Mr. 
J.  C.  Philson,  the  latter  acting  as  treasurer  of  the  committee.  This 
church  building  stands  as  a  monument  to  the  zeal,  energy  and 
sacrifice  of  pastor  and  people. 

When  Rev.  Gruver  resigned,  the  question  of  the  Berlin  congre- 
gation becoming  a  separate  pastorate  was  considered  at  a  con- 
gregational meeting  held  January  22,  1893,  when  the  following 
action  was  taken :  "Resolved,  That  the  congregation  proceed  to 
determine  by  ballot  whether  or  not  the  Berlin  congregation  shall 
constitute  a  separate  and  distinct  pastorate,  a  majority  vote  of 
all  the  members  present  to  be  taken  as  a  final  decision  and  choice 
in  the  matter."  The  vote  stood  as  follows:  Yeas,  100;  nays, 
thirty.  After  this  decision  was  made,  the  Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor,  D.D., 
was  then  called  to  become  the  first  pastor  of  the  Berlin  Church 
as  a  separate  pastorate.  He  served  the  pastorate  very  efficiently 
for  a  period  of  six  years. 

The  next  pastor  called  was  the  Rev.  R.  S.  Patterson,  under 
whose  administration  the  numerical  strength  of  the  congregation 

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passed  the  400  mark.  It  was  during  this  pastorate  that  the'  old 
parsonage  opposite  the  High  School  building  was.  sold,  and  a  lot 
was  bought  on  Main  Street,  where  the  present  commodious  par- 
sonage was  built  at  a  cost  of  about  $3,000.  Rev.  Patterson  was 
also  instrumental  in  having  the  pipe  organ  placed  in  the  church, 
thus  adding  not  only  to  the  beauty  of  the  building,  but  giving  a 
new  inspiration  in  the  services  as  well. 

The  Rev.  A.  J.  Rudisill  became  pastor  in  1906,  and  served  the 
congregation  for  a  period  of  five  years.  In  the  summer  of  1907 
an. addition  of  twenty-five  feet  was  built  to  the  Sunday  school 
room,  at  a  cost  of  $2,000.  The  growth  of  the  school  demanded 
this  enlargement.  During  Rev.  Rudisill's  pastorate  the  communi- 
cant membership  of  the  church  was  increased  to  478,  and  there 
was  marked  progress  along  all  lines  of  the  work.  He  was  active 
in  the  work  of  Synod  and  Conference,  and  started  the  movement 
which  resulted  in  the  preparation  of  this  History.  He  prepared 
the  sketch  of  this  congregation  up  until  the  time  of  his  resigna- 
tion. 

The  present  pastor,  Rev.  H.  B.  Burkholder,  took  up  the  work 
in  September,  191 1.  In  the  summer  of  1916  it  was  seen  that 
the  Sunday  school  had  again  outgrown  its  quarters,  and  it  was 
decided  to  make  another  addition  to  the  room.  This  was  done  by 
widening  the  room  ten  and  one-half  feet,  at  a  cost  of  about 
$1,700.  The  improvement  furnishes  the  desired  space  and  adds 
much  to  the  appearance.  The  present  enrollment  of  the  Sunday 
school  is  425,  while  the  congregation  numbers  540  communicant 
members. 

This  congregation  furnished  for  the  Lutheran  ministry  Revs. 
Peter  Lane,  John  P.  Hentz,  D.D.,  B.  B.  Collins,  W.  E.  Fischer, 
D.D.,  Frank  Fischer,  D.D.,  John  Brubaker,  D.D.,  Oscar  H.Gruver, 
D.D.,  Jesse  Ball,  Ph.D.,  C.  F.  Floto. 

It  is  in  place,  before  closing  this  historical  sketch,  to  state  that 
this  congregation  has  always  been  liberal  in  its  benevolent  con- 
tributions. Not  only  has  it  met  the  regular  apportionment,  but 
it  has  given  liberally  to  the  various  institutions  of  the  Church. 
Many  years  ago  the  congregation  endowed  a  scholarship  in  Penn- 
sylvania College,  and  some  of  the  members  contributed  liberally 
to  the  Seminary  when  that  institution  was  in  great  financial 
need.  The  total  benevolent  contributions  for  the  last  Synodical 
556 


THE  CHRIST  (CASE BEER) 


year  were  $1,349.  Every  member  should  feel  proud  of  this 
splendid  history,  and  all  should  endeavor  to  make  both  the  pres- 
ent and  the  future  worthy  of  the  past. 

Names  of  pastors  who  have  served  the  Berlin  congregation : 

Rev.  John  Litzel,  1777  to ;  Rev.  Michael  Steg,  1788  to  1792; 

Rev.  Frederick  W.  Lange,  1793  to  1813;  Rev.  Ernest  H.  Tiede- 
man,  1813  to  1819;  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler,  1819  to  1834;  Rev.  George 
Leiter,  1834  to  1835;  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  1835  to  1840;  Rev. 
Louis  Gustiniani,  1840  to  1842;  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  1842  to 
1843;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1843  to  1846;  Rev.  Charles  Young, 
1846  to  1851;  Rev.  Elias  Fair,  1851  to  1856;  Rev.  Philip  Shee- 
der,  1856  to  1864;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1864  to  1872;  Rev.  A. 
M.  Strauss,  1872  to  1875  ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  1875  t0  l885  I 
Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver,  1885  to  1893;  Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor,  1893  to 
1899;  Rev.  R.  S.  Patterson,  1899  to  1906;  Rev.  A.  J.  Rudisill, 
1906  to  191 1 ;  Rev.  H.  B.  Burkholder,  191 1  to . 


THE  CHRIST  (CASEBEER)  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

SOMERSET,   R.  D.,   PA. 

Rev.  Guy  E.  McCarney,  Pastor 

The  Christ  (Casebeer)  Lutheran  Church  had  its  inception 
in  Rhodes'  schoolhouse,  Edie,  Pa.,  March  9,  1845. 

After  due  notice  to  the  community,  divine  services  were  held 
in  Rhodes'  schoolhouse,  March  9,  1845.  The  pastor,  Rev.  Peter 
Rizer,  preached  a  sermon,  after  which  he  recorded  the  names  of 
those  desirous  of  becoming  members  of  the  new  organization. 
The  charter  members  of  the  church,  as  recorded  that  day  by 
Rev.  Rizer,  numbered  fifty-six.  One  member  of  this  enterpris- 
ing band  of  Christians,  Mrs.  Savilla  Darr,  has,  by  God's  mercy, 
been  permitted  to  help  bear  the  burdens  and  rejoice  in  the  suc- 
cesses of  this  church  from  its  founding  to  the  present  time.  She 
is  eighty-seven  years  of  age,  and  the  only  charter  member  now 
living. 

The  next  meeting  of  the  infant  church  was  held  in  Rhodes' 
schoolhouse,  April  6,  1845.  At  this  service  the  following  men 
were  elected  to  direct  the  destinies  of  the  church :  Philip  Maurer 
and  Jacob  Baker,  elders ;  John  Casebeer  and  Samuel  Miller, 
deacons. 

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At  the  same  time  the  congregation  was  organized,  it  was  deter- 
mined, in  reliance  on  divine  aid,  to  undertake  the  erection  of  a 
new  church. 

Deacon  John  Casebeer,  residing  on  the  Johnstown  Pike,  five 
miles  north  of  Somerset,  generously  offered  one  acre  of  his  land 
for  the  church  site.  This  offer  was  accepted,  and  ground  was 
broken  for  the  building  of  the  church  in  the  spring  of  1845. 

The  contract  for  the  church  was  given  to  Benjamin  F.  Beattie, 
of  Somerset,  and  so  rapidly  was  the  work  accomplished,  that  on 
Sunday,   November  30,   1845,  the  church  was  dedicated  to  the 


THE   OLD    "CASEBEER"   CHURCH,    ERECTED    1845 

service  of  Almighty  God.  The  consecration  service  was  read 
by  the  pastor,  Rev.  Peter  Rizer,  and  the  sermon  was  preached 
by  the  Rev.  Reuben  Weiser,  of  Bedford,  Pa.,  on  the  text,  Rev. 
19:  10,  "Worship  God." 

This  church  is  popularly  known  as  the  "Casebeer"  Church, 
because  it  is  located  on  the  John  Casebeer  farm. 

The  "Casebeer"  Church  remained  a  part  of  the  Somerset  cir- 
cuit, composed  of  Somerset,  Bakersville,  Lavansville  and  Case- 
558 


THE  CHRIST  (CASEBEER) 


beer,  until  December  31,  1871,  when  the  Somerset  congregation 
and  the  "Casebeer"  congregation  united  in  a  separate  charge 
known  as  the  "Somerset  charge." 

The  congregation  grew  steadily  from  a  membership  of  fifty- 
six  in  1845,  to  270  in  1903,  and  the  desire  for  a  new  church  stole 
into  the  hearts  of  the  people.  Consequently  a  new,  commodious, 
well-appointed  brick  building  replaced  the  old  well-loved  wooden 
structure.  The  old  church  was  moved  from  its  foundation,  but 
retained  as  the  place  of  worship  until  the  new  church  could  be 


THE    NEW    "CASEBEER"    CHURCH,    ERECTED    I9O3 

completed  on  the  same  spot  where  the  old  one  had  stood.  The 
plans  for  the  new  church  were  drawn  by  Architects  George  Wild 
and  H.  M.  Rogers,  of  Johnstown. 

The  new  church  was  erected  during  the  ministry  of  Rev.  R.  L. 
Patterson.  It  is  a  two-roomed  building,  auditorium  40  x  58, 
and  Sunday  school  30x40  feet.  It  cost  $14,000.  Those  holding 
the  honorable  position  of  building  committee  were :  G.  F. 
Schmucker,  William  H.  Bowman,  Wilson  H.  Maurer,  David  A. 
Swank  and  Henry  W.  Bittner.  The  new  brick  church  was  ded- 
icated June  19,  1904.    The  morning  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev. 

559 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


D.  Stuart  Hoover,  of  Manasquan,  N.  ].,  and  Rev.  R.  S.  Patter- 
son, of  Berlin,  Pa.,  had  charge  of  the  service  of  offering.  Other 
ministers  present  at  the  dedication  were:  Revs.  Shearer,  Lambert 
and  Fleck. 

This  live,  energetic  and  progressive  congregation  has  profited 
by  the  leadership  of  the  following  ministers :  Rev.  Peter  Rizer 
organized  the  congregation  and  remained  with  the  circuit  for  two 
years,  when  he  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  William  Uhl,  who  served 
the  congregation  until  185 1.  By  the  latter  year  the  membership 
had  increased  from  fifty-six  to  113  souls.     Since  1851  the  church 


REV.  G.  E.  MCCARNEY,  PRESENT  PASTOR  CASEBEER  CHURCH 


has  been  served  by  the  Revs.  A.  Babb,  1851  to  1857;  C.  Whit-' 
mer,  1857  to  i860;  G.  M.  Pile,  i860  to  1861 ;  L.  Gerhart,  1861 
to  1866;  J.  P.  Hentz,  1866  to  1872;  A.  M.  Whetstone,  1873  to 
1881  ;  J.  F.  Shearer,  1882  to  1890;  E.  Manges,  1890  to  1893; 
C.  F.  Gephart,  1893  to  1897;  D.  Stuart  Hoover,  1897  to  1902; 
R.  L.  Patterson,  1902  to  1908;  I.  Hess  Wagner,  1909  to  1914. 
On  October  t,  1914,  the  old  Somerset  charge  dissolved  and  the 
Somerset  congregation  and  the  "Casebeer"  congregation  each 
felt  strong  enough  to  support  its  own  pastor.  Consequently  the 
560 


ST.  STEPHEN'S,  CUMBERLAND,  MD. 


Christ  (Casebeer)  Church  called  the  Rev.  E.  Roy  Hauser  as 
pastor.  Rev.  Hauser  took  charge  of  the  work  March  14,  191 5, 
and  served  until  July  9,  1916.  A  call  was  then  extended  to  the 
present  pastor,  the  Rev.  G.  E.  McCarney,  who  assumed  the  duties 
of  pastor  January  1,  1917. 

In  1917  the  congregation  completed  the  erection  of  a  beautiful 
brick-cased  parsonage  at  Sipesville,  Pa.,  about  one  and  one- 
fourth  miles  from  the  church.  The  parsonage  is  equipped  with 
electric  light,  bath,  running  water,  and  hot  water  heat,  making  a 
very  comfortable,  well-planned  home  for  the  pastor. 

The  progress  and  development  of  this  congregation  is  unique, 
because  of  the  fact  that  it  is  a  distinctively  rural  church.  The 
church  building  stands  in  the  midst  of  a  beautiful  farming  sec- 
tion, but  has  no  houses  very  near.  Its  present  membership  of 
275,  with  a  Sunday  school  of  about  300,  and  the  consistent,  regu- 
lar attendance  of  the  members  would  make  it  hard  for  us  to  agree 
with  those  who  claim  that  the  country  church  is  dying. 


ST.  STEPHEN'S  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

CUMBERLAND,  MD. 

Rev.  C.  E.  Kuhnert,  Pastor 

Lutheranism  in  Cumberland  dates  well  back  in  the  nineteenth 
century  in  the  organization  of  St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Church,  from 
which,  through  periodic  differences  of  opinion,  nearly  all,  if  not 
all,  of  the  present  Lutheran  churches  branched  off.  It  was  dur- 
ing one  of  these  periodic  differences  in  the  spring  of  1902  that 
the  pastor,  Rev.  T.  J.  Yost,  and  many  members  of  St.  Paul's 
withdrew  and  organized  a  new  congregation.  The  seceders  met 
in  the  Reformed  Episcopal  Church  and  organized  on  the  evening 
of  March  19,  1902,  with  eighty-six  charter  members,  under  the 
name  of  the  First  English  Lutheran  Church  of  Cumberland.  This 
name,  however,  was  subsequently  changed  to  St.  Stephen's  Lu- 
theran Church,  which  continues  to  be  its  name.  In  organizing, 
the  following  brethren  were  elected  elders :  Brothers  W.  H. 
Haller,  George  Weber,  J.  E.  McBeth  and  H.  L.  Hartsock.  The 
following  were  elected  deacons :  Brothers  L.  S.  Bramble,  George 
L.  Mobly,  L.  W.  Yost  and  C.  M.  Ridgely.     The  young  congre- 

561 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


gation  was  fortunate  and  blessed  in  securing  as  their  first  pastor 
the  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  who  was  called  April  23,  1902. 
Dr.  Young  labored  faithfully  and  devotedly,  and  laid  the  foun- 
dations of  the  congregation  with  great  wisdom  and  foresight. 
As  the  parent  church  was  successful  in  restraining  the  Maryland 
Synod  from  recognizing  the  congregation,  it  was  refused  admit- 
tance to  that  body.  Disowned  by  the  body  that  should  have 
admitted  it,  through  the  untiring  labors  of  its  pastor,  the  congre- 
gation applied  to  and  was  admitted  to  the  Alleghany  Synod  of 
Pennsylvania,  September  25,  1902.  Before  securing  a  permanent 
location,  meetings  were  held  in  the  following  places  respectively : 


;■%-■'::  l-'yTfr'n- *>:,;■:,,..,. 

'.'I1 

: -:• :  "-■■ >'-- 

III 

u  1 
■f       1 

1  ~i 

A.     , 

Hi  :  :\ 

Ml  *  ., 

11  i  1 

•HI    .-■  '    m;  ■■,     -  mm~'l 

— ~    '■'•"" 

ST.    STEPHEN  S   LUTHERAN   CHURCH,   CUMBERLAND,    Mil. 

The  Reformed  Episcopal  Church,  K.  of  P.  Hall,  Genvey  Hall, 
Maennerchor  Hall,  and  finally  back  to  the  Christ  Reformed  Epis- 
copal Church,  at  the  corner  of  South  Center  and  Union  Streets, 
their  present  location. 

While  meeting  in  the  Genvey  Hall  it  was  learned  that  the 
Christ  Reformed  Episcopal  Church  property  could  be  secured 
at  a  cost  of  $8,500.  With  no  funds  in  hand,  but  with  a  deeply 
devoted  pastor  and  a  good  supply  of  pluck,  the  members  went  to 
work  with  a  will  and  bought  the  property  they  now  occupy, 
April  1,  1903.  Here  again  good  fortune  smiled  on  the  congrega- 
tion, for  it  was  only  through  a  gas  explosion  that  had  blown  off 
the  roof  and  broken  a  number  of  the  windows  in  the  auditorium, 
562 


ST.  STEPHEN'S,  CUMBERLAND,  MD> 


thus  rendering  the  auditorium  useless  without  repairs,  that  they 
were  able  to  secure  their  beautiful  property  at  such  a  low  figure. 
This  good  fortune,  however,  has  always  been  used  as  an  excuse 
by  the  various  Boards  of  the  General  Synod  for  denying  assist- 
ance to  the  congregation  in  its  hours  of  need.  The  needed  repairs 
were  made  quite  largely  by  pastor  and  people,  as  they  worked  side 
by  side,  cleaning,  repairing  and  painting.  These  repairs  increased 
the  actual  cost  of  the  property  to  $9,200. 

Although  busy  with  a  multitude  of  details,  Dr.  Young  found 
time  to  frequently  visit  and  confer  with  his  warm  friend,  Dr. 
L.  A.  Mann,  pastor  of  St.  John's  Lutheran  Church.  Soon,  how- 
ever, Dame  Rumor  said  that  Dr.  Young's  visits  at  the  home  of 
Dr.  Mann  were  not  all  for  the  discussion  and  study  of  theological 
problems,  but  many  were  for  the  study  of  the  attractive  daughter 
of  the  parsonage,  Miss  Carrie  M.  Mann.  Dame  Rumor,  for 
once  at  least,  told  the  truth,  as  Dr.  Young  and  Miss  Mann  were 
married  in  the  Sunday  school  of  St.  Stephen's  on  the  evening 
of  July  14,  1903.  The  ceremony  was  performed  by  the  bride's 
father,  Rev.  Dr.  Mann,  assisted  by  Dr.  E.  J.  Wolf. 

Meanwhile  the  repairs  upon  the  church  were  rapidly  moving 
along.  The  auditorium  windows  were  replaced  with  beautiful 
stained  glass  memorials  presented  by  various  members  and 
friends  of  the  pastors.  One  was  also  presented  by  the  Somerset 
County  Lutheran  Sunday  School  Association.  A  handsome  altar 
was  presented  by  the  Western  Maryland  Railway  Trainmen, 
through  the  able  leadership  of  Mr.  C.  M.  Ridgely.  These  repairs 
were  completed  early  in  September.  The  dedicatory  services  took 
place  September' 20,  1903,  and  were  conducted  by  Dr.  Wolf, 
president  of  General  Synod,  assisted  by  Rev.  Poffenberger,  of 
Vandergrift,  Pa.  The  work  was  abundantly  blessed  and  pros- 
pered under  the  untiring  labors  of  Dr.  Young  until  he  was  sud- 
denly called  home,  December  12,  1904,  through  an  attack  of 
appendicitis.  The  passing  of  their  beloved  pastor  was  a  sad  blow 
to  the  congregation,  the  effects  of  which  were  felt  for  years 
afterwards. 

On  March  19,  1905,  the  Rev.  George  G.  M.  Brown  assumed 
charge,  only  to  resign  one  year  later  without  having  done  any- 
thing, practically,  in  the  way  of  carrying  out  and  establishing 
the   well-laid   plans   of    Dr.   Young.      The   resignation   of   Rev. 

563 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Brown,  on  March  19,  1906,  was  unexpected  and  very  discour- 
aging. 

The  congregation  was  so  discouraged  that  the  next  pastor,  the 
Rev.  C.  F.  Floto,  found  the  work  much  run  down  and  the  mem- 
bers widely  scattered.  It  was  only  after  much  hard  work  and 
patience  on  the  part  of  Rev.  Floto,  who  assumed  charge  Septem- 
ber 10,  1906,  that  the  members  were  persuaded  to  again  loyally 
stand  by  the  church.  Under  Pastor  Floto  the  church  debt  was 
decreased  $500,  and  the  work  prospered  until  the  close  of  his 
ministry,  January  1,  1910,  when  he  accepted  a  call  to  Benders- 
ville,  Pa. 

The  charge  was  now  without  a  shepherd  until  May  8,  1910, 
when  the  Rev.  Curtis  Edgar  Kuhnert,  of  Philadelphia,  Pa., 
accepted  a  call  and  came  direct  from  Wittenberg  Seminary.  The 
young  pastor  found .  the  charge  in  a  lamentable  condition ;  the 
members  were  again  scattered  and  discouraged,  largely  through 
the  presence  of  several  factions,  which  soon  undid  the  faithful 
work  of  their  former  pastor.  These  factions  first  had  to  be  har- 
monized before  any  constructive  work  could  be  accomplished. 
The  new  pastor  spent  the  first  several  months  in  carefully  going 
over  the  situation  and  personally  calling  on  all  the  members. 
The  congregational  problems  were  not  the  only  ones  that  were 
troubling  the  pastor's  mind  at  that  time,  for  in  spirit  at  least  he 
was  frequently  visiting  a  certain  maiden  in  Philadelphia,  Pa.  On 
September  7,  1910,  he  was  happily  married  to  the  above-men- 
tioned maiden,  Miss  Leila  O.  Beitler,  in  St.  Matthew's  Lutheran 
Church,  of  Philadelphia,  Pa.,  of  which  both  bride  and  groom 
were  members.  Dr.  Edwin  Heyl  Delk,  pastor  of  St.  Matthew's, 
performed  the  ceremony.  When  finally  settled  in  Cumberland, 
the  pastor  and  his  bride  set  about  using  the  information  already 
gathered  in  getting  the  church  organizations  and  the  social  life 
of  the  church  on  good  working  foundations.  It  soon  became 
apparent  that  something  must  be  done  to  decrease  the  heavy 
burden  of  interest  on  the  church  debt.  After  much  planning  and 
hard  work,  the  debt  was  decreased  $1,150,  and  the  first  mort- 
gage was  secured  at  a  lower  rate  of  interest,  thereby  saving  $60 
per  year  in  the  running  expenses  of  the  church.  The  organ  in 
the  Sunday  school  room  had  long  since  ceased  to  be  musical  or 
useful,  and  therefore  a  new  piano  was  bought,  costing  $325. 
564 


ST.  STEPHEN'S,  CUMBERLAND,  MD. 


During  these  years  of  struggle  and  discouragement  nothing  had 
been  done  in  the  way  of  repairing  the  property.  Indeed,  it  was 
all  the  congregation  could  do  to  keep  its  head  above  water  with 
its  heavy  burden  of  debt,  without  incurring  any  heavier  obliga- 
tions. The  condition  of  the  church  property  was  going  from  bad 
to  worse,  and  the  members  were  not  only  getting  discouraged 
but  it  became  increasingly  hard  to  get  new  members  to  unite 
with  us.  In  the  spring  of  19 16  it  was  very  evident  that  extensive 
repairs  had  to  be  made  at  once  if  the  congregation  was  to  con- 
tinue. After  much  prayer  and  careful  investigation,  it  was 
decided,  with  no  money  in  hand  but  with  strong  faith  in  God,  to 
make  the  necessary  repairs,  believing  firmly  that  God,  Who  had 
so  abundantly  blessed  in  the  days  gone  by,  would  surely  bless  in 
the  seemingly  impossible  task  before  us.  The  church  was  re- 
roofed,  the  halls  and  auditorium  were  repainted,  new  cocoa  mat- 
ting was  placed  in  the  halls,  and  new  carpet  on  the  floor  of  the 
auditorium,  and  the  God  in  Whom  we  had  put  our  trust  so 
abundantly  blessed  that  we  were  able  to  announce  on  Easter 
morning  all  bills  paid.  The  committee  on  improvements,  Mr. 
R.  H.  Hill  and  Mr.  H.  W.  Lottig,  labored  hard  and  faithfully 
and  received  the  thanks  of  the  congregation. 

These  improvements  so  aroused  the  members  that  not  only 
were  the  improvements  costing  almost  $900  paid  for,  but  out- 
standing debts  of  many  months  were  all  cleared  off  and  the 
church  debt  was  decreased  $250.  Nor  were  things  allowed  to 
stop  there ;  the  members,  under  the  able  leadership  of  Mr.  Frank 
A.  Good,  carried  on  the  good  work  and  repainted  the  Sunday 
school  room,  replaced  the  old  windows  with  chipped  glass,  and 
put  new  cocoa  matting  on  the  floor,  and  the  church  as  well  as 
the  Sunday  school  room  has  been  refitted  with  electric  lights  to 
take  the  place  of  the  old  gas  lights,  which  are  no  longer  practical 
owing  to  the  failure  of  the  gas  company  to  supply  the  city  with 
gas.  In  addition  another  $50  has  been  paid  on  the  church  debt, 
and  more  will  be  paid  off  at  the  next  opportunity. 

The  officers  of  the  church  at  present  are  as  follows :  Elders, 
Brothers  J.  George  Hermann,  W.  M.  W'adsworth,  H.  B.  Scharf, 
William  Judy,  Sr.,  C.  W.  Beamer ;  Deacons,  Brothers  R.  H. 
Hill,  H.  W.  Lottig,  George  Lottig,  F.  A.  Good,  Lawrence  Mid- 
dlekamp. 

565 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


St.  Stephen's  has  been  a  self-supporting  church  from  the  very 
beginning,  as  it  received  no  aid  from  the  Board  of  Home  Mis- 
sions and  no  aid  from  the  Board  of  Church  Extension  beyond  a 
few  nominal  gifts.  It  has  also  always  met  its  apportionment 
during  the  fifteen  years  of  its  history,  with  but  one  exception, 
which  was  due  to  change  of  pastors. 


CAIRNBROOK  CHARGE, 

Rev.   IV.  A.  Bauman,  Pastor 

The  Mt.  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  Shade  Town- 
ship, Somerset  County,  Pa. 

This  congregation  has  been  called  "Alleghany,"  because  of  its 
nearness  to  this  mountain;  "Moses,"  because  of  its  proximity  to 
where  Mr.  Moses  once  lived;  and  "Shade,"  from  the  groves 
which  surround  it. 

As  early  as  1822,  Rev.  Carl  Rebenach  occasionally  preached 
here  in  houses.  The  first  effort  to  build  a  church  dates  from 
1823,  when  Messrs.  Reel,  Stumpf,  Moses  and  the  two  Statlers 
hewed  logs,  hauled  stones,  and  began  a  building.  June  19,  1823, 
the  corner-stone  was  laid.  The  church  was  placed  on  an  un- 
occupied and  stony  piece  of  ground.  Tradition  says  that  Father 
Heyer,  then  of  Cumberland,  laid  the  corner-stone.  Services 
were  held  here  occasionally  by  Rev.  Peter  Schmucker,  pastor  at 
Somerset.  In  1824,  Hon.  John  Statler  from  Stoyestown,  a 
member  of  the  Legislature,  secured  from  the  State,  by  a  parch- 
ment deed,  still  possessed,  thirty  acres  of  land  for  the  use  of  the 
Lutheran  and  the  Reformed  congregations.  According  to  tradi- 
tion the  congregation  was  organized  by  Rev.  Heyer  in  1824,  after 
his  coming  to  Somerset,  and  that  he  received  twelve  members. 

The  building  was  a  "Union"  church,  one-story,  log,  35  x  35.  A 
later  addition  of  fifteen  feet  was  made.  It  was  weather-boarded 
and  plastered,  and  cost  about  $800. 

It  is  probable  that  Rev.  Heyer  cared  for  this  congregation, 
one  of  the  five  he  was  serving  until  1827.  On  December  1,  of 
that  year,  Rev.  Gustavus  Schultz  preached  here  and  at  Living- 
ston's, and  reported  96  communicants  for  the  two  places.  He 
resigned  in  1830  to  go  as  a  missionary  for  the  Pennsylvania 
566 


MT.  ZION,  SHADE  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  COUNTY 

Ministerium  to  Tioga  County.  If  this  congregation  had  any  care 
during  1831,  it  was  from  the  Somerset  pastor,  Rev.  Daniel 
Heilig. 

In  1832,  Rev.  Heyer  received  a  call  to  return  to  Somerset, 
signed  by  five  congregations,  Shade  being  one  of  them.  He 
resigned  again  January  i,  1836. 


FIRST   CHURCH,    SHADE,    BUILT    IN    1823,    CAIRNBROOK    PASTORATE 

His  successor  in  the  charge  was  Rev.  Haverstick.  It  seems  that 
this  pastor  did  not  preach  here,  and  that  whatever  services  were 
received  were  given  by  Rev.  William  Yeager,  of  Friends'  Cove. 

Rev.  Peter  Rizer,  the  next  Somerset  pastor,  served  this  con- 
gregation, 1839-1843,  having  in  all  six  congregations. 

The  Stoyestown  Charge  was  now  formed,  1845,  and  this  was 
made  a  part  of  it  until  1846.  The  pastor  was  Rev.  S.  B.  Lawson, 
In  this  same  year  a  new  charge,  the  Davidsville,  was  formed  of 
St.  James,  Moses,  Livingston's  and  Davidsville.  Rev.  Gideon 
Butler  supplied  it  till  Synod,  where  he  was  licensed,  and  was 
pastor  for  about  a  year  under  the  direction  of  Rev.  Rizer,  Presi- 
dent of  Synod.  But  as  this  church  was  far  from  the  others,  it 
was  again  put  to  the  Stoyestown  Charge,  and  supplied  by  re- 
quest of  Synod  again  by  Rev.  Lawson,  from  April  1,  1849  to  1850. 

With  the  coming  of  Rev.  W.  A.  Kopp  to  Davidsville,  it  again 

567 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


became  a  part  of  this  charge,  and  was  served  by  him  from  May  I, 
1850   to  May  1,  1852. 

Jacob  K.  Bricker,  a  student  and  licentiate  under  Rev.  Peter 
Sahm,  of  Johnstown,  served  it  June  1,  1852  to  October  1,  1854. 

Other  pastors  from  Davidsville  were :  Rev.  Joseph  J.  Bechtell, 
January  1,  1855  to  January  1,  1857.  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Bricker, 
May  1,  1857  to  May  I,  1859.  Rev.  John  Beaver,  November  11. 
i860  to  March  23,  1863;  Jacob  K.  Bricker,  January  1,  1864  to 
February  1,  1866;  Rev.  J.  B.  Crist,  February  24,  1867  to  Decem- 


SHADE   LUTHERAN    CHURCH    OF    1893,    CAIRNBROOK   PASTORATE 


ber  22,  1869.     During  1867  the  charge  purchased  a  parsonage  in 
Hooversville  for  $1,400. 

Rev.  A.  R.  Height,  January  9,  1870  to  April  1,  1871.  In 
1 87 1,  the  Conference  formed  a  new  charge,  putting  Shade  with 
W'eigle's  at  Hooversville,  Graeff's,  Lambertsville  and  Shanks- 
ville.  This  last  congregation,  however,  did  not  come  into  the 
charge.  From  this  time  on,  the  other  four  churches  were  known 
as  the  Hooversville  Charge. 
568 


GRAEFF,  CAIRNBROOK 


The  following  pastors  served  it  as  thus  formed :  Rev.  J.  K. 
Bricker,  August  I,  1871  to  August  1,  1874.  Rev.  Reuben  Smith, 
January  1,  1875  to  January  1,  1876.  Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick,  July 
1,  1876  to  December  1,  1877.  Rev.  J.  L.  Miller  (supply),  May 
to  September,  1878.  Rev.  J.  B.  Shoup,  January  1,  1879  to  July 
10,  1881.  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh,  October  18,  1881  to  November 
21,  1886.  Rev.  J.  H.  Houseman,  May  1,  1887  to  August  1,  1891. 
Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz,  November  1,  1892  to  1893.  Rev.  D.  B.  Lau, 
November  1,  1893  to  1895.  November  19,  1893,  the  new  frame 
church  was  dedicated,  the  pastor  being  assisted  by  Rev.  M.  L. 
Young,  Ph.D.,  President  of  Synod.  Its  total  cost  was  $2,600. 
Rev.  Samuel  Krider,  October  27,  1895  to  1897.  'Rev.  C.  M. 
Wachter,  November  8,  1899  to  1901.  Student  G.  F.  Sheese,  1902 
(supply).  Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz,  November  1,  1902  to  1904.  Rev. 
C.  F.  Floto,  November  31,  1905  to  September,  1906.  Rev.  G.  K. 
Allen,  November  31,  1907  to  March  24,  1912.  Rev.  P.  J.  Shriver, 
March  25,  191 2  to  March  25,  1914.  Rev.  W.  E.  Sunday,  April 
15,  1915  to  May  1,  1916.  Rev.  J.  A.  Richter,  May  1,  1916  to 
December  8,  19 16.     Rev.  W.  A.  Bauman,  19 17  — 

Graeff  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church, 

cairnbrook,  pa. 

Some  of  the  members  of  the  Shade  congregation  prevailed 
upon  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker,  pastor  in  1864,  to  hold  services  for 
them  in  the  McGregor  school-house.  He  also  preached  in  some 
of  their  homes,  especially  in  that  of  John  Graeff.  His  successor, 
Rev.  J.  B.  Christ,  continued  services  in  the  community,  as  like- 
wise did  Rev.  A.  R.  Height.  At  his  resignation.  Rev.  John 
Tomlinson  upon  invitation  organized  a  congregation  in  the 
McGregor  school-house,  May  24,  1871.  The  laymen  who  presided 
at  this  meeting  were  John  Graeff,  President,  and  Samuel 
McGregor,  Secretary.  The  vote  to  organize  was  unanimous,  and  a 
constitution  was  immediately  prepared  and  signed  by  twenty 
members.  The  congregation  was  incorporated  May  6,  1872.  The 
charter  members  were  as  follows :  Samuel  McGregor,  John  J. 
Wilt,  John  Koontz,  Harrison  Lohr,  John  Graef,  Anthony  Wech- 
tenheiser,  Philip  Reitz,  Jacob  Yost,  John  Wallace,  John  Manges, 
John  \Y.  Wechtenheiser,  Jacob  M.  McGregor,  Joseph  Wilt,  Alex- 

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ander  McGregor,  Barbara  Wallace,  Sophia  Manges,  Rachel 
Koontz,  Susan  Lohr,  Elizabeth  Bash,  Elizabeth  Bradley,  Eleanor 
McGregor,  Caroline  Wilt,  Hannah  Yost,  Elizabeth  Lambert,  Susan 
Berkeybile.  The  following  are  still  living:  Philip  Reitz,  Jacob 
Yost,  Jacob  McGregor,  Rachel  Koontz,  Susan  Berkeybile. 

The  church  building  was  already  under  way,  the  corner-stone 
being  laid  May  25,  1871,  by  Rev.  Tomlinson.  As  the  new 
Hooversville  Charge  was  now  formed,  the  dedication  of  the 
building  was  under  the  direction  of  that  pastor,   Rev.   Bricker, 


GRAEFF    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    CAIRNBROOK    PASTORATE 

and  was  performed  October  29,  1871.  Rev.  J.  M.  Graybill,  of 
Everett,  assisted  on  the  occasion.  The  building,  a  one-story  frame, 
32  x  40,  with  steeple  and  bell,  was  dedicated  free  of  debt.  The 
cost  was  $1,700.  It  made  the  forty-fourth  Lutheran  church  of 
Somerset  County.  In  1908,  improvements  amounting  to  $350 
were  made. 

From  this  time  until  the  division  of  the  Hooversville  Charge,  it 
continued  to  be  a  part  of  the  same,  and  shared  with  Hoovers- 
ville, Shade  and  Lambertsville  the  services  of  their  pastors. 

570 


THE  LIVINGSTON  CONGREGATION 


During  the  summer  of  1 9 1 5 ,  the  town  of  Cairnbrook,  near  the 
Graeff  Church,  began  to  develop  so  rapidly  that  it  was  felt  that 
a  division  of  the  Hooversville  Charge  would  be  advantageous. 
At  a  meeting  of  the  Joint  Council  this  was  decided  upon.  Synod 
confirmed  the  action  October  9,  191 5,  with  the  proviso  that  the 
pastor  at  Hooversville  and  Lambertsville  continue  to  care  for  the 
entire  field  as  formerly  until  the  new  Cairnbrook  Charge  could 
secure  a  pastor.  This  condition  was  fulfilled  by  the  coming,  May 
1,  1916,  of  Rev.  J.  A.  Richter.  He  served  until  December  8  of 
the  same  year. 

W.  A.  Bauman  was  secured  as  supply  pastor  beginning 
January  1,  19 17,  to  continue  through  the  year  and  as  much 
longer  as  may  be  agreed  upon.  Early  in  the  year  they  succeeded 
in  getting  a  plot  of  ground  donated  by  Loyalhanna  Coal  and 
Coke  Company,  in  the  town  of  Cairnbrook,  upon  which  they  are 
erecting  a  new  brick  church,  costing  about  $15,000.  The  church 
will  be  situated  on  a  corner  of  four  regular  town  lots.  The  walls 
are  now  under  construction.  The  superstructure  will  be  built 
as  rapidly  as  possible.  It  will  be  a  two-roomed  church,  40  x  80 
feet,  divided  by  rolling  partitions,  built  of  buff  brick.  The  corner- 
stone was  laid  October  14,  1917. 

DAVIDSVILLE  CHARGE 

Rev.  D.  IV.  Lecronc,  Pastor 

The  Livingston  Congregation 

The  earliest  record  found  of  the  early  Lutherans  in  and  near 
Davidsvile  is  that  given  in  the  report  of  Rev.  Lambrecht,  who 
preached  at  Addison,  Samuel's,  and  in  Indiana  County,  and  on 
his  way  back  and  forth  preached  ( 1813)  in  Livingston's  school- 
house,  near  Foustwell,  near  the  junction  of  Shade  Creek  with 
Stony  Creek,  on  land  of  Frederick  Custer. 

In  1818,  Rev.  William  Schultze  notified  Synod  that  he  had 
taken  charge  of  the  congregation  of  Johnstown.  As  he  reported 
two  congregations,  it  is  very  likely  that  Livingston's  was  the 
other  point. 

Rev.  John  C.  Rebenach  served  this  congregation  one  year, 
'826-1827. 

Rev.    Gustavus    Schultze,    son    of    the    above,    served    (1827- 

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1830)  this  place,  Moses,  and  likely  Johnstown.  During  this  time 
a  union  church,  Lutheran,  Reformed,  and  Mennonite,  was  started 
near  the  schoolhouse.     It  was  never  finished. 

Rev.  Rebenach  again  (1830-1834)  served  these  people.  In 
1834,  Synod  grants  $100  mission  funds  to  this  charge  (Johns- 
town, Livingston  and  Moses),  for  which  the  Johnstown  congre- 
gation expresses  thanks  (1835)  and  asks  Synod  to  continue  to 
help  them. 

Father  Heyer  preached  here  and  at  Johnstown  occasionally, 
and  began  preaching  at  Davidsville,  during  1836,  as  he  journeyed 
to  and  fro  to  his  Clearfield  County  missions,  his  family  residing 
in  Somerset.  In  1837,  Synod  asked  "neighboring"  pastors  to 
care  for  these  places.  Accordingly,  Rev.  Yeager,  of  Friends' 
Cove,  preached  for  Shade ;  Revs.  N.  G.  Sharretts  and  Jacob 
Medtart,  pastors  at  Indiana,  preached  at  Johnstown ;  wtiile  with 
the  coming  of  Rev.  P.  Rizer  to  Somerset  (1839),  Livingston's 
and  Davidsville  again  had  services  from  there. 

The   Lutheran   Church   of   Davidsville,    Pa. 

In  the  year  1839  the  Davidsville  congregation  was  organized 
by  Rev.  Rizer,  who  served  it  till  1843,  when  he  resigned  four  of 
his  seven  congregations,  which  becanfe  the  Stoyestown  charge, 
viz. :  Friedens,  Stoyestown,  Moses  and  St.  James.  He  retained 
only  Somerset  and  Samuel's ;  but  having  organized  Bakersville, 
July  31,  1842,  he  reported  to  Synod  three  congregations  in  1843, 
and  in  1845,  four,  having  organized  Casebeer's,  March  9,  1845. 
It  would  seem  that  Livingston  and  Davidsville  were  still  consid- 
ered a  part  of  Johnstown  charge,  for  they  are  reported  to  Synod 
as  vacant  (1842). 

Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson  came  to  the  new  Stoyestown  charge 
in  1845,  Dut  apparently  during  his  first  year  resigned  St.  James, 
Davidsville,  Livingston's  and  Moses,  out  of  which  was  formed 
the  Davidsville  charge. 

The  pastors  follow:  Rev.  Gideon  Butler,  1846  to  April  1, 
1849;  Rev.  P.  Sahm,  1849  to  1850;  Rev.  William  A.  Kopp,  1850 
to  1852.  About  this  time  a  plot  of  ground  in  Davidsville  for  a 
church  was  given  by  Isaac  Kaufman.  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker,  1852 
to  1855.  At  a  communion  service  held  about  May  5,  1853,  Rev. 
J.  K.  Miller,  of  Stoyestown,  laid  the  corner-stone.  August  13. 
572 


DAVIDSVILLE 


1854,  the  church  was  dedicated,  the  pastor  being  assisted  by 
Rev.  A.  Babb,  of  Somerset.  The  building  committee  was  Henry 
Unbarn,  Samuel  Livingstone,  Daniel  Border,  Samuel  Border  and 
Josiah  Swank,  who  were  also  members  of  the  first  council,  whose 
pious  zeal  and  hard  labor  brought  the  venture  to  a  successful  issue. 
The  Livingston  Church  was  now  abandoned,  and  has  long  since 
rotted  down.  Rev.  Joseph  B.  Bechtell,  January  1,  1855,  to  Jan- 
uary 1,  1857;  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker,  May  1,  1857,  to  May  1,  1859; 
Rev.  John  Beaver,  November  11,  i860  to  1863 ;  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker, 
July  1,  1864,  to  1867;  Rev.  Jacob  B.  Crist,  February  24,  1867,  to 


DANIEL   HOFFMAN, 
Charier   Member   of   Davidsville   Church 

December  22,  1869;  Rev.  A.  R.  Height,  January  9,  1870,  to  April 
1,  1871 ;  Rev.  D.  Stufft,  January  1,  1872,  to  April  1,  1873;  Rev.  J. 
A.  Nuner,  June  1,  1873,  to  June  1,  1875.  In  l$72,  the  Scalp 
Level  and  Dunmeyer  congregations  became  a  part  of  the  Davids- 
ville charge,  and  the  new  Jennerstown  charge  was  formed.  Dur- 
ing this  pastorate  the  St.  Thomas  Church  was  organized  and 
admitted  a  part  of  the  pastorate,  making  four  congregations. 
Rev.  D.  Stufft,  July  1,  1875,  to  October  1,  1882;  Rev.  E.  M. 
Hubler,  March  15,  1883,  to  December  1,  1885.  During  this  time 
the  charge  bought  a  parsonage  in  Scalp  Level  for  $700,  and 
became  known  as  the  "Scalp  Level  charge."     Rev.  J.  A.  Lerch, 

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SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


February  16,  1886,  to  January  1,  1889;  Rev.  A.  B.  Erhard, 
April  1,  1889,  to  1893.  During  this  pastorate  the  church  was 
remodeled  at  a  cost  of  $400,  and  the  membership  grew  rapidly, 
increasing  to  the  number  of  245  communicant  members.  Rev. 
H.  C.  Salem,  1893  to  November  17,  1898.  Ben's  Creek  was  now 
organized  (1897),  and  a  parsonage  built  in  Davidsville  (1899), 
at  a  cost  of  $1,700,  and  the  charge  called  "Davidsville"  charge 
again,  constituted  as  at  present,  of  Davidsville,  St.  Thomas  and 
Ben's  Creek.  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,  December  12,  1899,  to  Octo- 
ber 31,  1 90 1  ;  Rev.  C.  M.  Wachter,  December  15,  1901,  to  1908. 


SAMUEL    R.    LIVINGSTON, 

One     of     the     Building     Committee     of 

First    Church    at    Davidsville 


DANIEL     BORDER, 

Contractor  and  Builder  of  First  Church 

at    Davidsville 


Under  Pastor  Wachter  the  charge  enjoyed  substantial  progress. 
Two  new  churches  were  built  in  1903,  Davidsville  and  St. 
Thomas.  Rev.  H.  O.  Reynolds,  September  15,  1908,  to  Febru- 
ary 25,   1912;  Rev.  D.  W.  Lecrone,   May   15,   1912,  to  . 

Milo  A.  and  Ellis  K.  Lecrone,  sons  of  the  pastor,  are  students 
for  the  ministry. 

The  Davidsville  church  was  dedicated  August  16,  1903,  the 
pastor  assisted  by  Revs.  R.  S.  Patterson  and  C.  W.  Anschutz. 
The  building  occupies  the  site  of  the  former  structure,  is  40  by  50 
feet,  with  tower,  colored  glass,  Gothic  windows,  with  a  seating 
capacity  of  450.  The  cost  was  $3,000. 
574 


ST.    THOMAS',    WINDBER 


The   St.   Thomas   Lutheran   Church,   Windber,   R.   D. 

The  St.  Thomas  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  of  Paint  Town- 
ship, Somerset  County,  Pa.,  was  organized  in  the  Flatrock  school- 
house,  April  ii,  1874,  by  Rev.  J.  A.  Nuner,  with  twenty-nine 
charter  members,  as  follows :  Cartharine  Kaltenbaugh,  Rosanna 
Weible,  David  Naugle,  Caroline  Naugle,  Reuben  Miller,  Eliza- 
beth Holsopple,  George  Fosler,  Eliza  J.  Miller,  Mary  Naugle, 
Delilah  Livingstone,  Eve  Berkey,  Caroline  Livingstone,  Susanna 
Naugle,  Christena  Fosler,  Samuel  Naugle,  John  Kaltenbaugh, 
Joseph  Naugle,  John  Roudabush,  Henry  C.  Kaltenbaugh,  George 
Livingston,  John  W.  Naugle,  Susannah  Naugle,  Lavina  Harsh- 
berger,  Jacob  Miller,  Jacob  Weible,  Polly  Naugle,  Sophia 
Naugle,  John  Naugle,  Christiana  Naugle. 


ST.   THOMAS  LUTHERAN   CHURCH,  DAVIDSVILLE  CHARGE 


This  organization,  known  at  first  as  the  "Ridge  congregation," 
belonging  to  the  Scalp  Level  charge,  decided  to  build  a  new 
church  of  which  the  corner-stone  was  laid  August  15,  1874.  Rev. 
H.  Seifert  preached  in  German  from  1  Pet.  2 :  6,  and  Rev.  J.  K. 
Bricker  in  English  from  Eph.  2 :  20.  Rev.  David  Stufft,  being 
present,  also  assisted  in  the  service.  The  ceremony  of  the  corner- 
stone laying  was  read  by  the  pastor,  J.  A.  Nuner. 

This  church  was  dedicated  October  n,  1874.  The  dedicatory 
sermon  in  English  was  preached  by  J.  K.  Bricker,  from  Col.  1  : 

575 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


1 8,  and  by  David  Stufft  in  German.  The  dedicatory  ceremony 
was  read  by  the  pastor,  J.  A.  Nuner.  Notwithstanding  the  hard 
times,   the   church   was   dedicated    free   of   debt,   costing  $1,000. 

Brother  Thomas  Lohr,  after  whom  the  church  has  been  named, 
donated  the  ground  for  this  church,  and  was  a  very  liberal  con- 
tributor to  its  erection.  Brother  Lohr,  up  to  the  time  of  his 
death,  was  one  of  the  leading  spirits  in  the  church.  He  was  a 
staunch  Lutheran,  faithful  to  his  Church,  loyal  to  Synod,  and 
above  all  a  faithful  and  devout  Christian. 

What   has   been   said   about   Brother   Lohr   as   a   worker   and 


DAVID     NAUGLE, 
One    of     Charter     Members,     and    large 
contributor 


JACOB    J.    WEIBLE, 

One    of    First    Council    of    St.    Thomas' 
Davidsville 


faithful  Christian  is  equally  applicable  to  all  the  charter  mem- 
bers upon  whom  the  prosperity  of  the  church  depended;  for  the 
church  prospered  and  grew  in  numbers  as  it  was  served  by  the 
following  pastors:  Rev.  J.  A.  Nuner,  1874  to  1875;  Rev.  David 
Stufft,  1875  to  1885;  Rev.  E.  M.  Hubler,  1885  to  1887;  Rev. 
j.  E.  Lerch,  1887  to  1890;  Rev.  A.  B.  Erhard,  1890  to  1894; 
Rev.  II.  C.  Salem,  1894  to  1899;  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,  1899  to  1902. 
During  Rev.  Gross'  ministry  the  Scalp  Level  charge  was  divided 
and  a  new  charge  formed  by  taking  St.  Thomas,  Davidsville  and 
Benscreek  congregations  together,  since  known  as  the  Davids- 
576 


ST.    THOMAS',    WINDBER 


ville  charge  and   served   by   pastors   from   there.      During  Rev. 
Wachter's  ministry,   1902  to   1907,  this  congregation  decided  to 


THOMAS    LOHR, 

Who      Donated      Ground     for      Church, 
After    whom    Church    is    named 


BENJAMIN    NAUGLE, 

Secretary    of    Crunc.il,    St.    Thomas' 
Church 


10HN  T.  LOHR 


build  a  new  and  larger  building,  which  was  badly  needed. 
Charles  Naugle  and  Mahlon  Berkey,  deacons,  and  Josiah  Naugle 
and  Henry  C.  Kaltenbaugh,  elders,  constituted  the  council ;  and 

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Benjamin  Naugle,  John  T.  Lohf  and  Henry  E.  Ott  were  selected 
as  a  building  committee. 

The  ground  for  the  new  church  was  donated  by  the  widow 
and  heirs  of  David  Naugle,  Sr.,  deceased.  The  corner-stone  was 
laid  May  24,  1903,  by  the  pastor,  C.  M.  Wachter.  The  church 
was  dedicated  August  30,  by  C.  M.  Wachter,  assisted  by  Dr.  C. 
B.  King  preaching  the  morning  sermon  and  by  Rev.  H.  D. 
Hoover  preaching  the  evening  sermon.  This  church  was  dedi- 
cated free  of  debt,  arid  cost  $3,000.  This  church  is  a  plank  struc- 
ture,  weather-boarded   and  plastered,   with  yellow  pine   ceiling, 


HENRY  D.    NAUGLE, 
St.    Thomas',    Sunday    School    Superin- 
tendent  for  twenty  three  years 


HENRY    E.    OTT, 
Member  of  Building  Committee 


slate  roof  with  a  tower  and  bell  and  oak  furniture,  size  36  by  50 
feet.  Brother  Benjamin  Naugle  was  the  contractor  and  builder. 
He  has  been  the  faithful  secretary  of  the  congregation  for  many 
years.  The  financial  success  of  the  congregation  was  due  to  the 
co-operation  of  the  council  and  the  building  committee  with  his 
efforts,  so  that  all  obligations  were  promptly  met. 

Vernon  and  Clarence  Naugle,  sons  of  Henry  D.  Naugle,  are  at 
present  students  for  the  ministry. 

A  Sunday  school  was  organized  in  1880,  with  Hiram  Lohr  as 
superintendent,   numbering   about    thirty,   and   open   six   months. 


BENSCREEK 


John  T.  Lohr  and  John  C.  Kaltenbaugh  were  elected  for  a  few 
years  as  superintendents. 

In  1887,  H.  D.  Naugle  was  elected  superintendent  and  contin- 
ued in  office  every  year  since  but  three  (1917).  The  Sunday 
school  has  grown  from  a  mere  babe  to  a  mature  man.  When  he 
first  accepted  the  office,  few  fathers  and  mothers  of  the  congre- 
gation took  any  interest  in  Sunday  school,  but  in  a  short  time 
every  father  and  mother  became  a  member  of  the  school,  which 
also  made  it  easy  to  have  school  open  the  year  around.  Through 
his  untiring  efforts  and  the  splendid  co-operation  of  all  the  mem- 
bers, knowing  that  success  can  only  be  attained  by  working 
together,  the  school  has  become  in  many  respects  one  of  the  best 
schools  in  the  county. 

The  Benscreek  Lutheran  Church 

For  several  years  after  the  organization  of  this  congregation 
in  1897  by  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem,  they  continued  worshiping  in  a 
schoolhouse  which  stood  where  the  present  church  now  stands. 
When  the  house  was  abandoned  by  the  township,  it  was  bought 
by  Peter  Thomas,  changed  to  a  chapel,  and  used  by  the  congre- 
gation, having  been  fitted  up  for  the  purposes  of  worship. 

The  charter  members  are :  Jacob  Heckman,  Mrs.  Jacob  Heck- 
man,  William  Heckman,  Ellen  C.  Heckman,  Mrs.  H.  F.  Barndt, 
Robert  C.  Barndt,  Jacob  Croyle,  Adam  Keefer,  Mrs.  Rachel 
Keefer,  Jacob  Keefer,  Mrs.  Lena  Keefer,  Mrs.  John  Y.  Keefer, 
Tobias  Keefer,  Mrs.  Tobias  Keefer,  Edward  Rhodes,  Susan 
Rhodes,  Minnie  Rhodes,  Ida  Rho.des,  Peter  Rhodes,  Mrs.  Katie 
Thomas,  Sophia  Thomas,  Eliza  Thomas,  Allen  Thomas,  Hilda 
Thomas,  H.  A.  Walker,  Mrs.  H.  A.  Walker. 

The  first  council  was:  Elders,  Adam  K.  Keefer,  Jacob  Heck- 
man; deacons,  V.  A.  Shaffer,  D.  E.  Heckman,  H.  A.  Walker, 
Allen  Thomas. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Salem,  he  instructed  and  con- 
firmed a  class  of  fifty  catechumens.  The  chapel  proving  too 
small,  subscriptions  for  a  new  building  were  solicited  by  D.  E. 
Heckman  during  the  summer  of  1899,  liberal  contributions  being 
made  by  Jacob  Heckman  and  family  and  H.  F.  Barndt,  the 
former  of  whom  supervised  the  erection.  The  full  amount  of 
the  cost   ($1,000)    was  secured  by  the  dedication,  on  April   14, 

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SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


1901.  It  is  a  frame  building.  The  sermon  was  preached  by 
Rev.  Isaac  Krider,  president  of  Synod,  and  Revs.  Fleck,  Stabley 
and  Salem  were  present  to  assist  the  pastor,  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross. 

The  members  of  the  Benscreek  congregation  are  very  loyal 
and  zealous  Lutherans.  Brother  Jacob  Heckman  has  held  the 
same  office  since  the  organization,  and  has  helped  much  toward 
the  financial  success  of  this  church,  which  has  always  met  its 
obligations  to  benevolence  and  current  expenses. 

Brother  John  Rhodes  has  been  secretary  of  the  congregation 
and  teacher  of  the  men's  Bible  class  for  years.  Brother  Her- 
man A.  Walker  has  been  the  efficient  Sunday  school  superintend- 
ent for  many  years,  and  has  brought  the  school  to  a  point  of 
interest  and  good  size.  Brother  Isaac  Yoder  is  another  zealous 
member  who  is  looked  to  because  of  his  able  judgment  and  love 
for  the  cause. 

The  pastors  have  been  those  of  the  Davidsville  charge. 


ELK  LICK,  OR  SALISBURY  CHARGE 

Rev.  E.  E.  Oncy,  Pastor 

St.  John's  Lutheran  Church 

elk  lick,  pa. 

The  history  of  the  congregation  was  not  an  easy  one  to  write. 
This  was  made  so  from  the  fact  that  it  had  to  do  with  some  of 
the  years  of  three  centuries,  and  the  absence  of  the  early  records. 
The  writer  spent  much  time  in  considering  all  available  records 
and  comparing  various  histories.  In  these  records  and  histories 
he  has  found  evidence  to  confirm  about  all  the  statements  made, 
though  some  few  of  the  dates  may  vary  a  little. 

This  is  one  of  the  oldest  congregations  in  Somerset  County, 
and  dates  back  to  about  1778.  Tradition  has  it  that  ministers 
from  the  East  visited  the  settlement  from  time  to  time,  preach- 
ing in  private  houses  and  baptizing  children.  Who  these  minis- 
ters were  is  no  longer  known.  From  the  old  records  of  the  Ber- 
lin congregation  it  is  believed  one  who  signed  his  name  J.  W. 
Litzel  was  among  the  first  of  these  ministers.  In  1765,  Rev. 
Litzel  (  sometimes  spelled  Lizel)  was  preaching  in  Northampton 
and  Lehigh  Counties.  One  of  the  towns  in  which  he  preached 
580 


ST.  JOHN'S,  ELK  LICK 


in  Northampton  County  was  called  Salisbury.  Nothing  is  re- 
corded of  him  in  the  East  after  1769.  Sometime  in  the  1770's 
he  is  found  among  the  pioneers  of  Berlin  and  Salisbury,  preach- 
ing in  Somerset  County,  and  perhaps  in  Alleghany  County,  Md., 
and  Preston  County,  W.  Va. 

The  tract  of  land  upon  which  Salisbury  was  founded  was 
known  as  "John's  Fancy."  It  belonged  to  John  Markley.  The 
village  was  founded  by  Joseph  Markley,  April  15,  1796.  The 
town  has  had  five  names :  John's  Fancy,  Quiertown,  Brushtown, 
Shiretown,  Salisbury  and  Elk  Lick.  It  is  believed  the  name 
Salisbury  was  first  given  to  it  by  this  Lutheran  pastor,  Rev.  J. 


ST.   JOHN  S  LUTHERAN   CHURCH   AND   PARSONAGE,   SALISBURY, 
REV.    L.    P.    YOUNG,    D.D. 

W.  Litzel,  in  honor  of  the  Salisbury  Church  in  Northampton 
County,  from  whence  he  came,  which  in  turn  was  doubtless 
named  for  the  Saltzburg  emigrants  to  America.  We  have  never 
heard  another  theory  as  to  the  name  Salisbury,  and  are  inclined 
to  believe  this  is  its  origin. 

In  1788,  Rev.  John  Michael  Steck  moved  from  Chambersburg 
to  Bedford  and  preached  at  Berlin  and  occasionally  at  Salisbury. 
It  appears  that  the  congregation  was  organized  by  Rev. 
Steck  somewhere  between  1789  and  1792.     This  would  give  the 

581 


M  KUERSET  CONFERENCE 


congregation  a  history  of  about  125  years. 

In  1794,  Rev.  Frederick  William  Lange  became  pastor.  The 
first  baptism  recorded  by  him  was  May  1,  1795. 

In  1809,  during  Rev.  Lange's  pastorate,  the  first  church  build- 
ing was  erected.  The  building  was  constructed  jointly  by  the 
Lutheran  and  Reformed  congregations  and  used  by  them  until 
1853.  ■  It  stood  in  the  east  end  of  the  town,  near  the  old  ceme- 
tery on  the  hill  overlooking  the  village.  The  cost  was  estimated 
at  $600.  It  was  a  two-story  log  house,  weather-boarded  on  the 
outside  and  lined  on  the  inside.  A  gallery  extended  along  three 
sides,  with  a  high  pulpit  on  the  north  side. 

According  to  the  best  information  obtainable,  it  was  in  this 
church,  in  1838,  during  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  that 


JOSIAH    DIVELY 

the  first  union  Sunday  school  of  the  town  was  organized.  John 
Lowry  was  the  first  superintendent. 

This  congregation  in  its  early  history  was  connected  at  various 
times  with  the  Berlin,  Cumberland,  Frostburg  and  Wellersburg 
Churches  and  served  by  their  pastors. 

In  1826,  when  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod  convened  at 
Berlin,  Rev.  Frederick  Haas  was  present  as  pastor  of  the  Salis- 
bury and  Greenville  churches.  Michael  Dively,  of  Salisbury, 
was  in  attendance  as  lay  delegate  from  these  churches.  He  was 
given  a  seat  and  the  right  to  vote.  Mr.  Dively  was  undoubtedly 
the  first  lay  delegate  to  represent  this  congregation  at  Synod. 
Rev.  Haas  made  application  to  be  received  as  a  member  of  that 
582 


ST.  JOHN'S,  ELK  LICK 


body.  The  following  resolution  was  passed :  "That  Rev.  Haas 
cannot  be  received  until  he  has  obtained  a  special  recommenda- 
tion from  the  president  of  the  Synod  to  which  he  belongs." 

It  is  believed  that  Rev.  Haas  lived  in  Salisbury,  but  this  cannot 
be  verified.  He  appears  to  have  resigned  in  1826,  when  Rev. 
Philip  Muchenhaupt,  pastor  at  Addison,  began  supplying  here. 
Many  strange  stories  are  related  of  this  weak  brother.  Many 
acts  of  unministerial  conduct  are  charged  against  him.  He  had 
a  fondness  for  the  cup.  He  knew  his  weakness,  and  it  is  said 
he  nearly  always  closed  his  sermons  with  an  appeal  to  his  hearers 
to  follow  his  advice  and  not  his  example.  He  also  practiced 
medicine.    He  was  fond  of  fine  horses.    One  of  these  once  saved 


MR.    AND    MRS.    PETER    WELFLEY 


his  life.  One  day  in  1827  he  and  Abraham  Harshberger,  a  well- 
known  farmer  of  this  community,  were  riding  along  the  road 
near  the  old  Beachy  Mill,  on  Laurel  Run.  In  passing  a  large 
tree,  it  fell  to  the  ground,  killing  Mr.  Harshberger.  The  break- 
ing tree  frightened  Doctor  Muchenhaupt's  high-spirited  horse ;  it 
plunged  forward,  cleared  the  tree,  and  thus  saved  his  life,  while 
his  companion  perished.     He  died  in  1832,  at  Addison,  Pa. 

The  first  known  resident  pastor  of  this  congregation  was  Rev. 
S.  B.  Lawson.  He  came  here  April  1,  1849,  and  resigned  April  1, 
185 1.  During  his  pastorate  the  congregation  was  reorganized. 
He  records  that  in  the  spring  of  1849  he  reorganized  the  congre- 
gation with  twenty-six  members,  besides  five  who  were  con- 
firmed that  day.     Joseph  Dively  and  Peter  Welfley  were  elected 

583 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


elders,  and  Casper  Loechel  and  George  Lowry,  deacons.  The 
following-  are  the  charter  members,  none  of  whom  are  living,  the 
last  surviving  one,  William  Kretchman,  dying  October  14,  1906; 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Henry  Brewer,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peter  Welfley,  John 
Rosenbaum,  Josiah  Dively,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Casper  Loechel,  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  John  Stein,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Christopher  Wahl,  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Lewis  Bockes,  George  Lenker,  George  Lowry,  Henry  Geese, 
Henry  Weimer,  Samuel  Raymon,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Adam  Smith, 
Catharine  DeHaven,  Anna  M.  Livengood,  Elizabeth  Stutzman, 
Julia  Dively,  Catherine  Lawson,  Mary  Neclrick.  The  following 
were  confirmed :  Cybilla  Lawson,  Elizabeth  Dively,  Mary 
Long,   William   Kretchman   and   Daniel   Duecker.       Miss   Lydia 


MR.    AND     MRS.    CASPER    LOECHEL 


Dively,  now  Mrs.  C.  R.  Haselbarth,  was  confirmed  December  5, 
1853,  by  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler.  She  is  the  daughter  of  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Michael  Dively,  one  of  the  pioneer  Lutheran  families.  Her 
membership  dates  back  further  than  any  other  living  member. 

Until  the  time  of  reorganization,  in  1849,  it  is  likely  the  con- 
gregation was  not  regularly  supplied.  They  worshiped  with 
the  Reformed  congregation,  having  Lutheran  pastors  come  from 
the  neighboring  charges  at  intervals.  Many  of  their  children, 
as  they  grew  up,  united  with  the  Reformed  Church.  It  is  known 
that  Michael  Dively  sent  some  of  his  children  to  Berlin  to  be 
catechized  and  confirmed  in  the   Lutheran  Church. 

Upon  the  resignation  of  Rev.  Lawson,  the  Rev.  P.  S.  Nellis, 
pastor  of  the  W'ellersburg  charge,  supplied  the  congregation.  On 
584 


ST.  JOHN'S,  ELK  LICK 


June  26,  1852,  he  reported  to  the  president  of  Synod  that  he  had 
conceded  two  of  his  congregations  to  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  mean- 
ing Salisbury  and  Greenville.  About  July  I,  1852,  Rev.  Pfahler 
became  pastor.  The  two  congregations,  Reformed  and  Lutheran, 
decided  to  build  another  union  church.  They  purchased  a  lot 
near  the  center  of  the  town,  of  one  Mr.  Henry  Brewer.  The 
corner-stone  was  laid  July  7,  1853.  The  dedicatory  sermons  were 
preached  by  Rev.  A.  Babb,  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  and  by  Rev. 
William  Conrad  of  the  German  Reformed  Church ;  the  former 
preaching  from  1  Kings  8:  18,  the  latter  from  John  4:24.  The 
building  was  of  brick,  with  a  basement  in  which  Sunday  school 
was  conducted. 

On  March  17,  1888,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  O.  F.  Harsh- 


...  -K 

l|*i  i 

^B '        w    ^^^^^'■^^^^B^BH 

wlA 

■  -3SjJ 

JHL 

wkiJk 

MR.    AND    MRS.    C.    R.    HASELBARTH 


man,  at  a  congregational  meeting  the  two  trustees,  Casper  Loechel 
and  George  Lowry,  were  instructed  to  sell  the  church.  Accord- 
ingly, on  April  25,  1888,  the  trustees  of  the  two  churches  drew 
up  the  condition  of  the  sale,  and  on  April  28  it  was  sold  for  $546, 
and  a  deed  delivered  May  28,  1888,  to  William  Lichty  for  the 
Reformed  Church.  This  building  later  passed  into  the  hands  of 
the  Progressive  Brethren,  and  is  now  used  by  them. 

Three  lots  on  Union  Street  were  purchased  from  Mrs.  Mary 
McBride  for  $500,  and  ground  broken  for  a  new  church  April  18, 
1889,  by  Rev.  Harshman,  H.  A.  Reitz  and  J.  N.  Ringler.  The 
corner-stone  was  laid  July  24,  1889.  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn  preached 
from  1   Pet.  2 :  6.     Revs.  M.  L.  Young  and  M.  F.  Pfahler  and 

585 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


the  local  ministers  of  the  other  denominations  were  present  and 
participate.!  in  the  services.  On  Sunday,  March  2,  1890,  the 
church  was  dedicated.  Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  Philadelphia,  Pa., 
preached  the  dedicatory  sermon,  from  Hag.  2 :  9.  Revs.  Settle- 
meyer,  Young,  Menges,  Spangler  and  Zinn  participated  in  the 
services.  The  church  is  Gothic  in  design,  two  rooms,  60  by  85 
feet.  The  interior  is  furnished  in  ash,  cherry  and  red  oak.  The 
entire  cost  was  $5,200.  This  is  the  third  church  building  the 
congregation  has  used. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  a  new  parsonage 
was  built,  in  1907,  upon  the  church  lot,  at  a  cost  of  $3,500.  It  is 
conceded  to  be  one  of  the  most  comfortable  parsonages  in  the 
county. 


MR.   AND    MRS.    GEORGE   LOWRY 

From  all  available  sources  it  would  appear  that  twenty-six 
different  pastors  have  served  this  congregation,  only  five  of 
whom  are  living:  Revs.  Koser,  Cribbs,  Johnston,  Young  and 
Oney. 

Seventeen  pastors  have  served  the  congregation,  as  follows : 
Rev.  John  Michael  Steck,  1788  to  1792,  from  Bedford;  Rev.  F. 
William  Lang,  1795  to  1812.  from  Berlin;  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer, 
1819  to  1825,  from  Cumberland;  Rev.  F.  Haas,  .December  25, 
1826  to  May,  1827,  resident;  Rev.  George  Leiter,  1834  to  1835; 
from  Berlin;  Rev.  Charles  Lepley,  1843  to  1S44,  from  Frostburg; 
Rev.  S.  B.  Lawson,  1848  to  1851,  Salisbury;  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler, 
1852  to  [865;  \iv\-.  John  Forthman,  1865  to  1868;  Rev.  M.  F. 
586 


GREENVILLE 


Pfahler,  1868  to  1875;  Rev.  J.  A.  Koser,  1875  to  1878;  Rev.  J. 
M.  Snyder,  1878  to  1879;  Rev.  Reuben  Smith,  1880  to  1884; 
Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  1885  to  1891 ;  Rev.  W.  W.  Kribbs,  1891 
to  1892;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  1894  to  1905;  Rev.  L.  P. 
Young,  D.D.,  1906  to  1915;  Rev.  Elbert  E.  Oney,  1915  to  1917. 

One  young  man  from  the  congregation  entered  the  ministry  of 
the  Lutheran  Church, — Rev.  John  Welfley,  son  of  Peter  and  Eva 
Welfley.  He  died  December  19,  1889,  aged  seventy-five  years. 
The  congregation  never  had  a  phenomenal  growth.  Its  advance- 
ment has  been  steady.  It  enjoys  the  reputation  of  paying  its 
debts  promptly  and  raising  its  apportionment.  In  the  years  gone 
by  it  has  given  to  the  community  many  God-fearing  men  and 
women,  who  loved  their  church  and  were  faithful  and  loyal  to 
her. 

The  life  of  many  staunch  Lutheran  families  clusters  around 
this  church.  The  likeness  of  a  few  are  given.  July  1,  1916, 
there  were  enrolled  174  members,  the  largest  membership  in  the 
history  of  the  congregation.  The  Sunday  school  numbers  163 
enrolled  members.  During  1916  the  congregation  gave  $244  for 
benevolence  and  $864  for  all  purposes. 

The  Somerset  Conference  has  met  in  this  church  six  times : 
November  20,  1866;  May  30,  1871 ;  May  26,  1874;  November  19, 
1878;  May  ir,  1886;  October  3,  1899. 

The  Greenville  Lutheran  Church 
This  congregation  has  an  existence  of  at  least  100  years.  While 
its  early  history  is  somewhat  hazy,  the  records  date  back  to  181 5. 
From  these  records  it  would  appear  that  the  church  had  an 
existence  as  early  as  1803  or  even  earlier.  It  is  supposed  the 
first  preaching  was  in  the  house  of  Peter  Deal,  by  one  Rev. 
Hunger.  [This  was  likely  Rev.  Hanker,  of  Friends'  Cove. — Ed.] 
Tradition  says,  in  the  year  1810  a  log  schoolhouse  was  built  in 
the  community  and  services  held  in  it  until  the  erection  of  the 
first  church  edifice. 

This  schoolhouse  was  known  as  "Werner's."  It  was  covered 
with  shingles  fastened  with  wooden  pins  driven  in  holes  made 
by  gimlets. 

The  first  minister's  name  recorded  is  Rev.  Oestereich.  When 
he  came  and  departed  is  unknown.     His  Synodical  relation  is 

587 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


very  much  in  doubt.  One  of  the  writers  of  this  early  history 
says :  "He  no  doubt  belonged  to  those  early  ministerial 
tramps  who  went  from  place  to  place  and  pretended  to  be  regular 
ordained  ministers,  when  they  were  but  wicked  wretches,  and 
never  even  ministers  in  any  denomination." 

Rev.  Philip  Muchenhaupt  was  the  second  pastor.  He  resided 
at  Bedford  at  this  time.  He  was  not  a  member  of  the  only  Synod 
then  in  existence  in  the  State,  the  Ministerium. 

It  was  during  this  period  that  ministerial  acts  were  first  re- 
corded.    These  records  show  that  on  May  20,   181 5,  Frederick, 


GREENVILLE  "I'XION"  AND  GREENVILLE  LUTHERAN   CHURCH    (THE  OLD  AND  THE 
NEW),    GREENVILLE   TOWNSHIP,    SOMERSET    COUNTY,    PA. 

son  of  Philip  and  Christina  Infeld,  was  baptized,  Peter  and  Mag- 
dalena  Keefer  acting  as  sponsors. 

This  church  was  first  connected  with  the  Cumberland,  Md., 
pastorate,  whether  as  a  station  or  a  regularly  organized  congre- 
gation cannot  be  determined.  This  was  during  the  pastorate  of 
Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  from  1819  to  1825. 

Greenville  has  been  served  by  the  pastors  from  five  different 
pastorates,  namely,  Cumberland,  Berlin,  Frostburg.  Wellersburg 
and  Salisbury,  and  has  been  at  one  time  or  another  a  component 
part  of  all  these  pastorates.  It  is  known  that  at  least  twenty 
588 


GREENVILLE 


different   pastors   have   ministered   to   this   congregation :      Rev. 

Oesfreich,  to   1815;  Rev.  P.  Muchenhaupt,   1815  to   1818, 

from  Bedford ;  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  1819  to  1825,  from  Cumber- 
land; Rev.  Frederick  Haas,  1825  to  1826,  from  Salisbury;  Rev. 
Henry  Haverstick,  1830  to  1832,  from  Cumberland;  Rev.  George 
Leiter,  1834  to  1836,  from  Berlin;  Rev.  Christian  Lepley,  1842 
to  1845,  from  Frostburg;  Rev.  John  Gaver,  1845  to  1846,  from 
Wellersburg;  Rev.  C.  Lepley,  1846  to  1848,  from  Frostburg; 
Rev.  S.  B.  Lawson,  1849  to  1851,  from  Salisbury;  Rev.  P.  S. 
Nellis,  1851  .to  1852,  from  Wellersburg;  from  Salisbury,  Rev. 
M.  F.  Pfahler,  1852  to  1865;  Rev.  John  Forthman.  1865  to  1868; 
Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  1868  to  1875;  Rev.  John  A.  Koser,  1875  to 
1878 ;  Rev.  J.  M.  Snyder,  1878  to  1879;  Rev.  Reuben  Smith, 
1880  to  1885  ;  Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  1885  to  1891  ;  Rev.  W.  W. 
Cribbs,  1891  to  1892;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  1894  to  1905; 
Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  1906  to  1915;  Rev.  Elbert  E.  Oney, 
1915  to  November  1,  1917. 

This  congregation  has  worshiped  in  three  edifices.  The  first 
was  in  "Werner's"  schoolhouse,  which  was  used  by  the  Lutheran 
and  German  Reformed  congregations.  The  two  congregations 
continued  to  worship  in  this  building  until  1848. 

There    appears    on    the    records    the    following    resolutions : 

"Whereas,  The  schoolhouse  in  Greenville  Township,  Somer- 
set County,  generally  known  by  the  name  of  'Werner's  school- 
house,'  is  free  and  open  as  a  place  of  worship  to  all  denomina- 
tions of  Protestants ;  and 

"Whereas,  It  not  only  might,  but  has  occurred  that  appoint- 
ments for  public  worship  by  two  different  denominations  have 
fallen  on  the  same  day  and  hour ;  and 

"Whereas,  Such  occurrences  have  a  tendency  not  only  to  dis- 
turb the  peace  and  harmony,  to  break  the  bond  of  Christian  fel- 
lowship, but,  also,  to  lay  the  foundations  of  dissension  and  strife, 
which  things  are  at  variance  with  the  spirit  of  true  Christianity 
and  expressly  forbidden  by  the  word  of  God ;  Eph.  4:31;  Col.  8 ; 
Titus  3:2;  Hebrews  12 :  14 ;  and 

"Whereas,  It  is  the  positive  injunction  of  the  Apostle  Paul 
that  all  things  be  done  decently  and  in  order;  1  Cor.  14:40. 
Therefore, 

"  1.  Resolved,  That  the  regular  and  stated  minister,  that  is,  he 
whose  appointments  are  regularly  and  statedly  made,  shall  in 
each  and  every  case  have  the  preference  when  appointments  are 
made  by  others  on  the  same  day  and  hour. 

589 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


"2.  Resolved,  That  in  order  to  prevent  all  contention  and  strife 
on  this  subject  in  the  future,  the  members  of  each  denomina- 
tion, who  have,  or  may  have,  any  interest  in  this  house  as  a  place 
of  worship,  and  who  statedly  or  occasionally  assemble  here  for 
that  purpose,  annex  their  signatures  either  for  or  against  the 
foregoing  preamble  and  resolutions  whose  adoption  or  rejection 
depends  upon  a  majority  of  signatures  for  or  against  it. 

"j.  Resolved,  That  these  resolutions,  with  the  signatures 
thereto  annexed,  be  deposited  in  a  place  of  safety,  to  be  referred 
to  for  decision  in  case  any  dispute  should  hereafter  arise,  who  is 
to  have  preference,  when  appointments  for  public  worship  are 
made  by  two  denominations  on  the  same  day  and  hour." 

This  paper  is  without  date.  It  is  signed  by  fifteen  persons  in 
favor  of  the  resolutions.  No  names  appear  as  being  against 
them.  The  signers  are :  John  Beal,  Isaiah  Diehl,  Jacob  Infelt, 
Joseph  Hare,  Edmond  Diehl,  John  Long,  Jonas  Hutzell,  Henry 
Hare,  Peter  Engel,  Jacob  Diehl,  John  Schultz,  John  Engel,  John 
Bare,  Daniel  Long  and  William  Bare.  From  the  records  and  the 
knowledge  of  the  older  members  it  is  learned  that  a  majority  of 
these  were  members  of  the  Lutheran  congregation. 

Early  in  the  spring  of  1848,  it  was  agreed  to  erect  a  house  of 
worship  to  be  held  as  joint  property  of  the  Lutheran  and  German 
Reformed  churches  in  equal  proportions.  A  lot  of  ground  near 
the  cemetery  was  donated  by  Jacob  Diehl.  The  corner-stone 
was  laid  July  15,  1848.  There  were  no  ministers  present,  except 
the  two  pastors  of  the  churches,  Rev.  C.  Lepley,  Lutheran  pastor, 
and  Rev.  B.  Knepper,  Reformed  pastor.  Communion  services 
were  held  the  same  day,  when  Rev.  Lepley  confirmed  eighteen 
young  people. 

The  contract  for  the  erection  of  the  new  building  was  given 
to  Mr.  H.  Fitzbaugh,  of  Frostburg,  Md.,  for  $800.  The  building 
was  finished  according  to  contract  and  the  services  of  dedication 
appointed  for  November  19,  1848.  The  services  began  Friday 
evening,  November  17,  1848.  On  the  day  appointed,  November 
19,  1848,  the  building  was  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  God. 
The  dedicatory  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Lutheran  pastor, 
Rev.  C.  Lepley,  from  Matt.  26 : 8 :  "To  what  purpose  is  this 
waste?"  Theme:  "The  building  of  churches  is  of  more  profit 
than  loss  or  waste."  Subscriptions  to  the  amount  of  $117  were 
raised  on  the  day  of  dedication.  All  those  subscribing  were 
590 


GREENVILLE 


allowed  until  May  I,  1849, to  Pay  their  pledges.  Rev.  B.  Knepper, 
pastor  of  the  Reformed  church,  was  present  and  assisted  in  the 
services.  Communion  services  were  held  the  following  day, 
Monday.  The  record  reads :  "The  scene  was  solemn  and 
interesting."  The  membership  of  the  Lutheran  church  at  this 
time  was  thirty-eight. 

The  building  was  a  one-story  frame  structure,  with  a  seating 
capacity  of  200,  and  is  supposed  to  have  cost  $1,000.  This 
building  continued  to  be  used  by  both  congregations  until  1910, 
in  which  year  the  Lutheran  congregation  erected  a  new  church 
edifice.  This  new  building  stands  near  the  cemetery,  on  the 
opposite  side  of  the  road  from  the  union  church.     The  plot  of 


BENJAMIN    LOWRY 


JACOB    MILLER 


ground  containing  almost  an  acre  was  purchased  from  Mr. 
John  D.  Arnold.  Ground  was  broken  and  the  work  of  excava- 
tion began  1910. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  on  Sunday  morning,  June  5,  19 10. 
The  day  was  very  inclement.  The  sermon  was  preached  in  the 
old  church  by  Rev.  C.  P.  MacLaughlin,  pastor  of  the  Meyersdale 
Lutheran  Church,  after  which  the  congregation,  in  a  heavy  down- 
pour of  rain,  repaired  to  the  site  of  the  new  building  where  the 
corner-stone  was  formally  laid  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  L.  P.  Young, 
assisted  by  Rev.  MacLaughlin.  The  building  committee  consisted 
of  Messrs.  Isaiah  Bare,  Herman  Keefer,  John  D.  Arnold,  Harvey 
Miller,  Irvine  Shockey,  W.  C.  Paul  and  the  pastor.  Rev.  L.  P. 
Young.     The  contract  was  awarded  to  Petry  Brothers,  of  Elk 

591 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Lick,  Pa.  The  feast  of  dedication  was  held  Sunday,  October 
1 6,  19  io.  The  dedicatory  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  O.  F. 
Harshman,  of  Springfield,  Ohio,  a  former  pastor.  It  was  a 
beautiful  autumn  day,  clear  and  warm.  People  came  from  far 
and  near.  The  attendance  was  conservatively  estimated  at  1,500. 
A  free  dinner  was  served  in  the  groves  nearby  to  all  who  cared 
to  remain. 

Addresses  were  made  at  the  afternoon  services  by  Rev.  S.  C. 
Stover,  the  Reformed  pastor,  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  a  former 
pastor,  and  Rev.  A.  C.  Miller,  of  the  Salisbury  Evangelical 
Church.  In  the  evening,  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney,  of  Garrett, 
preached. 

The  report  of  the  building  committee  at  the  morning  service 
revealed  the  fact  that  almost  $1,400  was  needed  to  pay  all 
indebtedness.  The  pastor,  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  presented  the 
matter,  and  asked  that  the  offering  plates  be  passed  and  all  give 


MRS.    SALLY   BARE 


a  free-will  thank-offering.  Much  to  the  surprise  of  the  entire 
audience,  when  the  offering  was  counted,  it  was  found  to  be  more 
than  sufficient  to  pay  all  indebtedness,  amid  great  rejoicing  and 
thanksgiving. 

The  pastor  conducted  the  dedicatory  service,  when  the  Green- 
ville Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  was  consecrated  to  the  wor- 
ship of  the  Triune  God.  The  building  is  of  solid  brick,  is  Gothic 
in  architecture.  The  main  auditorium  is  50  by  46  feet.  The 
Sunday  school  room  is  30  by  22  feet.  These  two  rooms  are 
592 


GRANT SVILLE,   MD. 


separated  by  a  rolling  partition.  All  of  the  fourteen  art  glass 
windows  are  memorials  or  the  gifts  of  friends.  It  is  beautifully 
furnished  and  very  churchly  in  arrangement.  The  entire  cost 
was  $8,900.  Much  hard  work  was  done  by  the  members.  This 
church  stands  as  a  monument  of  the  liberality  and  devotion  of 
the   congregation. 

Two  bequests  were  made  to  this  building.  One  of  $400,  by 
Mrs.  Sally  Bare,  one  of  the  early  members  of  the  church,  and  a 
bequest  of  $250  made  by  Mr.  John  Gumbert,  of  the  Pine  Hill 
Church.     Many  former  members  contributed. 

The  membership,  June  1,  1916,  was  165  confirmed  members. 
During  1916,  they  contributed  $212  for  benevolence  and  $711 
for  all  purposes. 

The  congregation  has  had  a  steady  growth  and  has  exerted 
no  little  influence  upon  the  life  of  the  community. 

Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  resigned  as  pastor,  February  1,  1915, 
to  accept  the  office  of  missionary  superintendent  of  the  Alle- 
ghany Synod.  The  pastorate  remained  vacant  until  June  1, 
when  Rev.  Elbert  E.  Oney,  a  member  of  the  graduating  class  of 
our  seminary  at  Gettysburg,  became  pastor,  resigning  November 
1,  1917. 

The  Lutheran   Church   of  Grantsville,   Md. 

The  early  history  of  the  Grantsville  congregation  is  shrouded  in 
mystery.  There  are  no  records  available  of  the  pioneer  Lutheran 
ministers  who  visited  the  community.  However,  we  are  sure 
that  our  Church  has  had  an  existence  of  at  least  seventy-five 
years  and  possibly  more  in  the  "Old  Town  on  the  Pike." 

The  earliest  recorded  preaching  we  have  in  Grantsville  was 
by  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  about  1856.  The  congregation  at  this 
time  must  have  belonged  to  the  Salisbury  pastorate.  The 
Lutheran  and  Reformed  people  worshiped  in  the  same  house  at 
this  time.  In  1857  or  1858,  Rev.  Pfahler  built  the  Lutheran 
church.  The  building  was  dedicated  some  time  in  1858.  A  Rev. 
Coleman,  of  Addison,  Pa.  (perhaps  Rev.  Frederick  Kuhlman, 
licensed  this  year  by  Synod),  and  the  pastor  of  the  Lutheran 
Church  of  Frostburg,  Md.,  were  present  and  took  part  in  the 
dedicatory  services.  The  lot  was  donated  by  Adam  Schuttz. 
The  foundation  for  the  building  was  laid  by  David  Custer,  and 

593 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


the  contract  for  erecting  the  edifice  was  let  to  George  Seibert  of 
Accident,   Md. 

Rev.  Matthew  F.  Pfahler,  the  founder  of  this  church,  was 
born  in  Wurttemberg,  Germany,  December  10,  1815,  and  died 
February  13,  1890,  near  Meyersdale,  where  he  was  buried.  His 
parents,  of  staunch  Lutheran  faith,  came  to  the  United  States  in 
1818  and  settled  on  a  farm  near  Millerstown,  Pa.  He  entered 
school  at  Gettysburg  in  1836,  graduating  from  the  Seminary  in 
1844.  During  forty  years  of  active  ministry,  nearly  all  in  south- 
ern Somerset  County,  he  served  five  charges,  as  follows:    Addi- 


OLD    LUTHERAN    CHURCH    OF    GRANTSVILLE,    MD. 

son,  1845-1851;  Freeport,  111.,  1851-1852;  Salisbury,  1852-1865; 
Lewisburg,  1865-1868;  Salisbury,  1868-1875;  Wellersburg,  1876- 
1885.  For  years,  as  a  member  of  the  Synod's  Examining  Com- 
mittee, he  examined  on  Personal  Piety,  of  which  his  life  was  a 
shining  example.  The  esteem  in  which  he  was  held  was  mani- 
fested in  the  Synod  by  the  undertaking  by  this  body  to  purchase 
a  house  for  him  in  which  he  spent  his  declining  years.  He  was 
survived  by  two  daughters  and  two  sons,  now  deceased,  the  one, 
John  Pfahler,  long  a  leader  in  the  Lutheran  Church  of  Meyers- 
dale. 
594 


GRANTSVILLE,  MD. 


The  first  separate  parochial  report  we  have  of  the  Grantsville 
'congregation  is  dated  September  4,  1862.  It  reads  as  follows: 
Infant  baptisms,  five ;  confirmations,  two ;  received  by  letter,  two ; 
confirmed  membership,  thirty-five. 

From  1862  until  1888,  we  have  no  reports  from  Grantsville. 
During  these  twenty-six  years  the  congregation  belonged  to  the 
Maryland  Synod,  and  was,  we  suppose,  an  integral  part  of  the 
Friendsville-Accident  pastorate,  of  that  Synod.  It  is  known 
that  the  congregation  was  served  for  many  years  by  a  Rev. 
Shoup,  better  known  in  the  community  as  "Father  Shoup."    Rev. 


THE  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH  OF  GRANTSVILLE,  MD. 


Shoup  made  his  preaching  tours  on  foot,  preaching  at  Grants- 
ville in  the  morning,  at  Bittinger,  Md.,  in  the  afternoon  and 
Accident  in  the  evening.  The  distance  between  any  two  of  these 
points  is  about  ten  miles.  This  task  alone  speaks  for  the  faith- 
fulness and  consecration  of  this  minister. 

In  1888,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  the 
Grantsville  congregation  was  transferred  from  the  Maryland 
Synod  to  the  Alleghany  Synod  and  became  a  part  of  the  Salis- 
bury charge.  There  were  enrolled  at  this  time  sixty-two  con- 
firmed members,  and  the  Sunday  school  reported  an  enrollment 
of   sixty-two-  members   the   same   year. 

595 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Rev.  Brininger  served  this  congregation  as  pastor  at  two  dif- 
ferent periods.  He  went  from  here  as  a  missionary  to  Africa, 
where  his  beloved  wife  died. 

About  1864,  it  is  said  a  Rev.  Lazarus  began  a  second  term  of 
services  as  pastor  of  Grantsville.  In  1865,  Rev.  Lenn  was 
serving  the  congregation,  and  continued  pastor  for  a  number  of 
years.  These  pastors  evidently  resided  at  Grantsville.  While 
Rev.  J.  J.  Young,  D.D.,  was  pastor,  the  parsonage  was  moved 
from  Grantsville  to  Accident.  Since  the  congregation  was 
transferred  to  this  Synod  in  1888  it  has  been  served  by  five 
pastors  in  the  following  order : 

Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  1 888-1 891  ;  Rev.  W.  W.  Cribbs,  1891- 
1892.     Improvements  to  the  amount  of  $450  were  made  and  the 


MR.    AND    MRS.    CHARLES    BILL,.    GRANTSVILLE,    ELK    LICK    CHARGE 


church  rededicated  October  25,  1892.  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D., 
1894-1905;  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  1906-1915;  Rev.  Elbert  E. 
Oney,  191 5  to  November  1,  19 17. 

A  number  of  years  ago  the  old  church  became  inadequate  for 
the  use  of  the  congregation.  Under  the  splendid  leadership  of 
Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  the  pastor,  steps  were  taken  toward  the 
building  of  a  new  house  of  worship.  The  old  church  was  aban- 
doned February  9,  191 3. 

On  Sunday,  June  1,  1 9 1 3 ,  the  congregation  proceeded  to  lay 
the  corner-stone  of  their  new  church  edifice.  The  afternoon  was 
beautiful  and  the  services  were  attended  by  a  large  concourse  of 
people.  A  splendid  address  was  delivered  by  Rev.  J.  C. 
596 


GRANTSV1LLE,   MD. 


McCarney  of  Friedens,  Pa.,  the  president  of  the  Somerset 
County  Conference.  Revs.  E.  S.  Hassler,  of  the  Reformed 
Church,  W.  WV  Morris,  of  the  M.  E.  Church,  and  Edward 
Miller,  of  the  Mennonite  Church,  took  part  in  the  services.  A 
large  union  choir  rendered  excellent  music.  The  thank-offering 
amounted  to  $100.  The  stone  was  formally  laid  by  the  pastor. 
The  new  church  was  dedicated  October  12,  1913.  The  day 
was  one  of  those  most  beautiful  autumnal  days  which  are  so 
delightful  in  all  these  higher  regions  of  the  Alleghany  Mountains, 
but  so  seldom  enjoyed  by  the  inhabitants  of  the  lower  lands  of 
the  country.  The  building  is  of  brick.  It  is  Gothic  in  style. 
The  auditorium  is  50  by  33  feet  in  size,  with  a  Sunday  school 
room,  30  by  20  feet,  connected  with  it  by  a  movable  partition. 


MR.    AND    MRS.    AUGUST    BONIG,    GRANTSVILLE,,    MD. 

The  church  proper  is  nicely  furnished  with  oak  pews ;  the  pulpit 
furniture  is  of  quartered  oak,  including  altar  and  lecturn ;  the 
windows  are  all  memorials  and  are  exceptionally  beautiful.  The 
building  is  heated  from  a  hot  air  furnace.  The  high  metal  ceiling 
and  the  internal  arrangements  make  the  auditorium  altogether 
churchly. 

Services  connected  with  the  dedication  were  held  three  times 
during  the  day.  The  dedicatory  sermon  was  preached  by  the 
Rev.  C.  B.  King,  D.D.,  of  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  in  the  morning  at 
10.30.  The  sermon  was  very  interesting,  forceful  and  edifying. 
After  the  sermon  the  pastor,  Rev.  Young,  stated  that  the  build- 
ing, as  it  appeared  before,  them,  had  cost  in  work  and  money 

597 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


about  $8,500,  and  not  less  than  $2,300  must  be  secured  to-day 
that  the  church  could  be  dedicated  without  mortgage ;  and  having 
placed  two  secretaries  and  a  cashier  at  a  table  'within  the  altar 
railing  the  most  difficult  work  of  the  day  began. 

The  afternoon  service,  which  was  perhaps  more  largely 
attended  than  in  the  morning,  was  one  of  greeting.  Addresses 
were  made  by  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  of  Elk  Lick,  Pa.,  a 
former  pastor  of  the  congregation,  and  ex-Senator  of  the  United 
States  George  R.  Wellington,  of  Cumberland,  Md.  At  the  close 
of  his  splendid  address  of  greeting,  Mr.  Wellington  added  to 
the  force  and  emphasis  of  his  remarks  by  handing  over  his  check 
for  $50.  In  a  very  short  time  in  the  afternoon  some  two  or 
three  hundred  dollars  were  added  to  the  amount  received  in  the 


MR.  AND  MRS.   HENRY  WINTERBERG,  GRANTSVILLE,   MD. 

morning,  and  the  secretaries  and  the  cashier  reported  that  a 
sufficient  sum  had  been  paid  to  meet  all  outstanding  obligations. 
After  satisfying  himself  and  others  the  pastor  announced  to  the 
assembled  crowd  that  the  sum  of  $2,750  was  in  the  hands  of  the 
clerks.  Then  the  solemn  services  of  dedication  were  conducted 
by  the  pastor.  Rev.  Young,  and  the  church,  with  its  altar,  its 
puipit,  its  vessels,  etc.,  was  dedicated  to  the  service  of  Almighty 
God,  amid  much  rejoicing  and  great  thanksgiving. 

In  the  evening,  at  7. 15,  the  beautiful  sanctuary  was  again  filled 
to  its  utmost  capacity.  Addresses  were  delivered  by  Rev.  E.  B. 
Boyer,  of  Confluence,  and  Rev.  W.  H.  B.'  Carney,  of  Garrett. 
Thus  concluded  a  service  long  to  be  remembered  by  the  people 
598 


ST.  PAUL'S,  KEIM 


of  Grantsville.  They  doubtless  went  to  their  homes  that  Lord's 
Day  evening,  saying,  "We  have  seen  great  things  to-day." 

The  music  furnished  during  the  morning  and  afternoon  serv- 
ices, by  a  select  Salisbury  choir  for  this  joyful  occasion,  was 
greatly  appreciated  by  the  hundreds  present. 

The  Grantsville  people  are  a  loyal,  devoted  people.  The  con- 
gregation has  given  to  the  community  some  of  its  best  and 
staunchest  citizens.  In  addition  to  a  gift  of  $1,500  to  the  new 
church,  Sara  A.  Broadwater  bequeathed  a  legacy  of  $500. 

The  migratory  spirit  has  hurt  the  congregation,  but, even  with 
this  drawback  the  church  has  had  a  steady  growth. 


ST.     PAULS     LUTHERAN     CHURCH.     ELK     LICK     CHARGE 


St.  Paul's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Church,  of  Keim,  was  organized  December 
10,  1865.  The  organization  was  effected  through  the  efforts  of 
Rev.  John  Forthman,  pastor  of  the  Salisbury  charge.  Some  of 
the  members  comprising  this  organization  were  formerly  mem- 
bers of  the  Salisbury  Church.  A  union  church  building  was 
erected  in  1859  at  a  cost  of  $535.  In  this  church  the  pastor  of 
the  Salisbury  Church  preached  at  intervals  previous  to  the  date 
of  organization.  At  the  first  communion  services,  held  Decem- 
ber 10,  1865,  the  following  resolution  was  adopted : 

"We,  the  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  resid- 

599 


SOMERSET  CONEEREAX  E 


ing  in  the  vicinity  of  the  union  church,  near  Jacob  Keim's,  in  the 
Township  of  Elk  Lick,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  have  resolved  to 
form  ourselves  into  a  regularly  organized  congregation,  and 
have  adopted  a  constitution  and  elected  officers,  with  a  view  of 
having  stated  preaching  among  us.  We,  therefore,  mutually  and 
respectively  agree  to  be  united  into  a  religious  and  congrega- 
tional compact  for  the  purpose  of  enjoying  a  preached  gospel, 
and  the  means  of  grace,  and  the  Holy  Sacraments  as  they  are 
dispensed  by  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  in  North 
America,  and  for  the  better  attainment  of  our  object,  we,  the 
undersigned  communicants,   have   adopted   this  constitution    (as 


LUIS    BOCKES 


MANASSES   KRETCHMAN 


follows),  and  affixed  hereunto  our  respective  names,  December 
io,  1865." 

The  constitution  was  signed  by  the  following  charter  members 
on  the  day  of  organization :  Daniel  Duecker,  Mary  Ann 
Duecker,  William  Kretchman,  Christina  Kretchman,'  Luis 
Bockes,  Catharine  Bockes,  Henry  A.  Miller,  Ann  Miller,  Henry 
Bockes,  Samuel  Bockes,  Mary  Hay,  Catharine  Griffy  and 
Elizabeth  Miller. 

The  following  members  were  elected  as  the  first  officers : 
Elder,  Manasses  Kretchman ;  deacons,  Daniel  Duecker  and 
William  Kretchman;  trustees,  Luis  Bockes  and  Daniel  Duecker. 
The  offering  recorded  was  $3.34. 

The  second  communion  was  held  May  27,  1866,  at  which  time 
all  the  charter  members,  except  one,  communed.  Five  names 
600 


ST.  PAUL'S,  KEIM 


are  added  to  the  communicant  list  as  having  communed :  Joseph 
Keim,  Hiram  Findly,  Elizabeth  Kinsinger,  Elisa  Keim  and  Nancy 
Kretchman. 

The  congregation  continued  to  worship  in  the  union  church 
until  1893,  when  they  secured  from  the  Mennonites  full  title  to 
it,  and  expended  $600  on  improvements.  They  continue  to  hold 
same.  The  building  is  a  one-story  frame  structure,  with  a  seat- 
ing'capacity  of  one  hundred  and  twenty-five. 

A  Sunday  school  is  held  during  the  summer  months,  with  a 
good  regular  attendance.  The  Lutheran  constituency  in  this 
community  is  small  and  for  this  reason  the  church  has  never 
had  a  large  growth.     The  members  are  loyal  and  devoted,  and 


CATHERINE   BOCKES     (DECEASED),    NANCY    KRETCHMAN,,    EMMA    GALBRAITH, 
SAVILLA   BROKMAN,  IRENE  BROKMAN, 
Five  Generations  of  Lutherans,   St  Paul's,   Elk  L,ick  Pastorate 

are  usually  found  in  their  places  at  the  regular  services.  The 
financial  obligations  of  the  congregation  are  promptly  met,  and 
the  full  apportionment  always  paid.  Many  of  her  older  mem- 
bers have  passed  away  in  recent  years,  and  the  migration  of  the 
younger  people  has  resulted  in  keeping  the  church  very  little 
above  its  average  membership. 

Nine  pastors  have  served  this  congregation,  in  the   following 
order  and  at  the  designated  times : 

601 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Somerset  Conference 


REV.    E.    S.    JOHNSTON,    D.D., 
Elk    Lick,    Pa. 


REV.     W.     H.    B.     CARNEY. 
Garrett,    Pa. 


REV.    J.    S.    ENGLISH, 
Stoyestown,    Pa. 


REV.    L.    P.    YOUNG,    D.D.,  REV.    J.    C.    MCCARNEY, 

Elk    Lick,    Pa.  Friedens,  Pa. 


REV.    1.     HESS    WAGNER,    D.H., 
Some:  -i  t,  Pa. 


REV.     II.     M.     I'KTREA, 

Somerset,  Pa.,  R.  D. 


602 


FRIEDENS 

Rev.  John  Forthman,  1865-1868;  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  1868- 
1875;  Rev.  J.  A.  Koser,  1875-1878;  Rev.  Reuben  Smith,  1880- 
1885;  Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  1885-1891  ;  Rev.  W.  W.  Cribbs. 
1891-1893;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  1 894-1 905  ;  Rev.  L.  P. 
Young,  D.D.,  1906-1915;  Rev.  Elbert  E.  Oney,  1915  to  November 
1,  1917. 

The  membership  is  now  sixty-two.  The  congregation,  in  191 6, 
raised  $89  for  benevolence  and  $345  for  all  purposes.  The  con- 
gregation owns  one-eighth  interest  in  the  parsonage  at  Salisbury. 
It  has  always  been  an  integral  part  of  the  Salisbury  charge. 


FRIEDENS  CHARGE 

Rev.  J.  C.  McCarney,  Pastor 

The  Lutheran  Church  of  Friedens,  Pa. 

Among  the  first  settlers  here  were  Frederick  Mostoller, 
Andrew  Woy,  Casper  Swank,  Henry  Shaffer,  Jacob  Swank, 
Thomas  Swank,  Jacob  Barnhart,  Joseph  Miller,  John  Mostoller, 
Michael  Mowry  and  Benjamin  Zerfoss. 

Upon  their  arrival  all  was  virgin  forest,  but  like  the  Pilgrims 
to  Plymouth,  they  loved  and  worshiped  God.  When  they  had 
their  land  patented,  Frederick  Mostoller  pointed  out  to  his  neigh- 
bors, in  1787  (some  say  1780- 1783),  a  piece  unoccupied,  and  in 
September  of  that  year,  he  and  Andrew  Woy  picked  out  sixty 
acres  for  school  and  church  purposes  and  cut  down  the  trees.  It 
was  patented  1808  to  the  Lutherans  and  Presbyterians  (i.  e. 
German  Reformed),  the  trustees  being  Andrew  Woy,  H.  Shaffer, 
Jacob  Swank.  It  was  called  "Harmony."  It  is  related,  how- 
ever, by  Father  Heyer  that  as  early  as  1785,  the  people  would 
assemble  together  in  the  dwelling  houses,  sing  hymns,  offer 
prayers,  listen  to  an  exhortation  by  Andrew  Woy,  or  a  sermon 
read  by  him. 

Though  it  is  possible  that  there  was  service  held  here  by  a 
licensed  pastor,  as  perhaps  Lizel,  from  Berlin,  none  such  are 
known  positively  earlier  than  the  time  of  Father  Steck,  who 
seems  to  have  visited  this  county  prior  to  his  moving  to  Bedford, 
in  1789,  while  still  living  at  Chambersburg,  where  he  began  work 
upon  his  receiving  license  in  1785.  He  moved  to  Greensburg, 
1792.    Rev.  Lange  preached  here  as  elsewhere  between  1793  and 

603 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


1810.  The  members,  however,  communed  at  Somerset  and 
Stoyestown,  and  not  till  [820  was  there  a  regular  organized 
congregation  here.  During  this  period,  it  is  claimed,  the  people 
never  failed  to  assemble,  being  led  by  Andrew  Woy  in  reading, 
singing  and  reading  to  them  a  printed  sermon. 

In  the  fall  of  1819,  Rev.  Rebenach  began  to  preach  here,  con- 
tinuing till  182 1. 

During  1819,  it  was  decided  to  build  a  new  church  on  the  old 
site,  in  what  is  now  called  the  Friedens  Lutheran  Cemetery.  The 
corner-stone  was  laid  May  2,  1820,  and  finished  enough  to  be 
used. 


THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH     OF    FRIEDENS,    PA. 


About  May  1,  1821,  Rev.  Peter  Schmucker  came  to  Somerset. 
On  May  12,  1821,  the  following  council  was  elected:  Elders, 
C.  Spangler,  B.  Zerfoss ;  deacons,  P.  Maurer,  A.  Woy.  He 
resigned   1823. 

During  the  winter  of  1823-24,  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer  preached 
here  as  a  supply,  and  became  pastor  1824,  upon  his  coming  to 
Somerset  that  summer,  where  he  resided.  He  served  also 
Samuels',  PIofTman's,  Stoyestown  and  other  points  with  occa- 
sional preaching. 

During  this  time  a  parsonage  was  built  at  Friedens,  beside  the 
604 


FRIEDENS 


church,  of  which  he  writes  (Autobiography)  :  "With  this  country 
dwelling  I  was  more  pleased  than  with  the  small  towns  I  had 
lived  in  before."  He  moved  into  it  November,  1825.  He 
resigned  July  1,  1828. 

There  followed  Rev.  Daniel  Heilig,  March  1,  1829,  to  March 
1,  1831  ;  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer  (second  time),  1831,  to  January  1, 
1836;  Rev.  H.  Haverstick,  1836,  to  July,  1838;  Rev.  P.  Rizer, 
November  1,  1838,  to  October,  1843.  During  this  pastorate  a 
revival  was  held,  the  first  of  its  kind  here,  and  spiritual  life  was 
much  quickened.  When  the  Somerset  charge  was  divided,  1843, 
Friedens  was  put  with   Stoyestown,   and   Rev.   Rizer  moved   to 


REV.    J.    J.    WELCH 

Somerset.  There  served  from  Stoyestown  the  following  pastors : 
Rev.  S.  B.  Lawson,  1845  to  1849;  Rev.  J.  T.  Williams,  August  1, 
1849,  to  August  1,  1850;  Rev.  J.  K.  Miller,  November  1,  1850, 
to  November  1,  1857.  Rev.  Miller  resigned  to  become  county 
superintendent  of  schools,  moving  to  Berlin. 

It  was  decided  to  build  a  new  Lutheran  Church,  the  former 
one  being  union,  and  now  too  small.  The  tract  of  sixty  acres 
was  divided ;  a  lot  was  donated  elsewhere  by  Gabriel  Walker. 
The  building  committee,  Gabriel  Walker,  Peter  Suter,  Josiah 
Snyder,  Josiah  P.  Walker  and  Philip  Shaver,  were  instructed  by 
the  congregation  to  build  a  two-story  brick  building,  60  by  45 

605 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


feet.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  June  25,  1858,  by  Pastor  Rev. 
Peter  Sahm,  and  dedicated  July  2,  1859,  the  pastor  being  assisted 
by  Revs.  C.  Witmer,  P.  Sheeder,  J.  K.  Bricker  and  John  Tomlin- 
son.    It  cost  $4,500. 

Rev.  P.  Sahm,  pastor,  February  1,  1858,  to  September  9,  1861  ;. 
Rev.  J.  Tomlinson,  pastor,  September  15,  1861,  to  September  28, 
1874.  During  Rev.  Tomlinson's  service  the  church  was  entirely 
paid  for.  Toward  it  Father  Gunder  gave  $1,000,  with  a  fund  of 
$2CO  to  the  Sunday  school.  Adam  Friedline  gave  $500 ;  others 
according  to  their  ability.  Repairs  amounting  to  $600  were  also 
made,  and  the  present  parsonage  built.  A  call  was  extended 
Rev.  J.  J.  Welch,  of  Osborne,  Ohio,  who  served  December  1, 
1874,  till  his  death,  January  3,  1902. 

In  1879,  Friedens  and  Wills  withdrew  from  the  Stoyestown 
pastorate.  November  29,  1885,  Shanksville  Church  voted  itself 
a  part  of  the  charge,  and  remained  so  till  1894. 

A  pleasant  meeting  was  held  in  the  Friedens  Church,  Septem- 
ber 28,  1899,  to  celebrate  the  twenty-fifth  anniversary  of  "Father" 
Welsh's  pastorate.  Addresses  were  made  on  his  work  in  Synod, 
Conference,  Sunday  School  Association  and  pastorate,  and  a 
purse  of  $500  presented.  He  died  in  the  midst  of  the  building  of 
Mizpah  Church.  But  he  still  lives  in  power,  in  the  community. 
Rev.  H.  D.  Hoover,  May  12,  1902,  to  February  1,  1904;  Charles 
Lambert,  June  1,  1904,  to  October  1,  1907;  Rev.  J.  C.  McCarney, 
December  1,  1907,  to  . 

The  corner-stone  for  the  present  church  building  was  laid 
August  29,  191 1,  with  appropriate  services,  the  sermon  being 
delivered  by  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney.  It  was  dedicated  Septem- 
ber 29,  191 2.  It  is  an  imposing  brick  structure  of  Gothic  design, 
with  art  memorial  windows,  finished  basement,  and  cost  com- 
plete $28,000,  one-third  of  which  was  raised  on  the  day  of 
dedication.  Revs.  Carney,  Burkholder,  English,  Shriver,  Wag- 
ner, M.  J.  Ross,  Guy  McCarney,  C.  B.  King,  Ph.D.,  and  former 
Pastors  Charles  Lambert  and  H.  D.  Hoover,  Ph.D.,  participated 
in  the  various  services  of  the  occasion. 

The  congregation  is  much  interested  in  missions,  and  is 
abreast  in  Sunday  school  and  Young  People's  Society  work.  It 
is  noted  for  its  hospitality,  and  has  frequently  entertained  the 
Somerset  Conference,  the  Conference  Sunday  School  convention 
606 


ST.  JOHN'S   {WILLS) 


and  the  Missionary  Conventions  of  Conference  and  Synod.  It 
has  furnished  one  minister,  Rev.  Mervyn  J.  Ross,  to  the  Church. 
It  is  progressive,  liberal,  and  in  many  ways  an  ideal  rural  con- 
gregation. 

St.  John's  (Wills)  Lutheran  Church 
This  congregation  was  organized  in  May,  1838,  by  Rev.  Charles 
Reese.     Worship  had  been  held  for  some  years  previously  regu- 
larly in  the  schoolhouse.     On  April  4,  1839,  the  first  communion 
was  held.     At  this  time  there  was  a  class  of  fifteen  who  had 


WILLS    EVANGELICAL   LUTHERAN   CHURCH 

been  previously  catechised.     They  were  received  into  fellowship 
with  the  church  at  the  first  communion. 

On  May  20,  1839,  Jacob  Will  deeded  one-fourth  acre  to  the 
Lutherans  and  German  Reformed,  Daniel  Will  and  William  Will 
being  the  trustees  in  the  beginning.  On  August  28,  1849,  Joseph 
Witmer,  Henry  Frank  and  William  Will  were  elected  trustees. 
Rev.  Reese  held  his  last  communion  on  July  2,  1849.  He  resigned 
August  1,  1849.  .  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson  took  charge  of  the 
Stoyestown  pastorate  and  served  Wills  as  a  part  of  that  pastorate. 

607 


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The  first  church  was  built  in  1844.  It  was  a  frame  structure, 
35  by  45  feet-  ^  cost  about  $800.  Rev.  Williams  served  this 
congregation  from  1849  to  1850;  Rev.  Jacob  Miller,  from  Novem- 
ber 1,  1850,  to  November  1,  1857;  Rev-  Peter  Sahm,  from  Febru- 
ary 1,  1858,  to  September  1,  1861  ;  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  from 
September  15,  1861,  to  April  1,  1874.  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch  became 
pastor  December  1,  1874.  In  1879  the  Stoyestown  charge  was 
divided,  Friedens  and  Wills  forming  the  Friedens  pastorate.  In 
1 88 1,  Shanksville  congregation  was  added  to  this  pastorate. 

In  July,  1886,  the  Lutheran  congregation  bought  the  German 
Reformed  interest  in  the  church  property.  The  Reformed  con- 
gregation had  no  organization  at  the  time.     A  new  church  was 


MIZPAH    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    FRIEDENS    CHARGE 

begun  in  1886.  August  7,  1886,  the  corner-stone  was  laid.  The 
sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver,  of  Berlin.  Revs. 
J.  F.  Shearer  and  A.  Sell  were  also  present.  The  church  was 
dedicated  May  15,  1887.  The  building  is  a  one-story  frame, 
35  by  55  feet,  with  cupola  and  bell.  The  cost  was  $2,100.  Rev. 
J.  F.  Shearer  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon. 

Rev.  J.  J.  Welch  relinquished  his  work  only  at  the  call  of  the 
Master,  on  January  3,  1902,  serving  the  charge  twenty-seven 
years,  one  month  and  two  days.  His  work  here  was  of  unusual 
merit.    Although  dead  he  yet  speaketh. 

Rev.  H.  D.  Hoover  was  elected,  and  became  pastor  May  12, 
608 


MIZPAH 

1902.  He  served  until  February  1,  1904.  Rev.  Charles  Lambert 
succeeded  him,  June  1,  1904,  and  served  until  October  1,  1907. 
Rev.  J.  C.  McCarney  succeeded  him  December  1,  1907. 

The  church  was  re-roofed,  painted,  and  the  steeple  removed, 
at  a  cost  of  $700,  i  11  1912.  This  congregation  is  the  home  church 
of  Rev.  H.  S.  Rhoads. 

Mizpah  Lutheran  Church 
Mizpah   Lutheran   Church   itself   is  of   recent  origin.     But   it 
must  be  borne  in  mind  that  there  had  been  preaching  in  the  Zer- 
fors  schoolhouse  for  many  years.     The  Rev.  Father  Welch  had 


THE  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN   CHURCH   OF  LISTIE,  PA. 

served  the  people  because  most  of  them  were  members  of  his 
churches,  but  too  far  removed  to  attend  services  regularly.  It 
was  during  the  end  of  his  earthly  career  that  these  people  began 
plans  for  their  congregation  and  church.  The  work  on  the 
church  was  begun  in  the  fall  of  1901. 

The  congregation  was  organized  January  18,  1902.  The  church 
was  dedicated  the  following  day,  January  19,  1902.  The  revered 
pastor  was  not  permitted  to  see  this  new  monument  to  his  labors. 
It  was  dedicated  by  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.  It  was  from  its 
incipiency  a  part  of  the  Friedens  pastorate,  and.  therefore,  has 

609 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Somerset  Conference 


REV.   W.   A.   SHIPMAN,   D.D., 
Johnstown,    Pa. 


REV.   R.   D.   CLARE, 
Johnstown,    Pa. 


REV.    C    E.    KUHNERT,  REV.    H.    B.    BURK HOLDER,  REV.    SIMON    SNYDER, 

Cumberland,    Md.  Berlin,  Pa.  Scalp  Level,  Pa. 


REV.  JOHN   BRUBAKER,   D.D.,       REV.    D.    W.    LECRONE, 
Berlin,   Pa.  Davidsville,    Pa. 

610 


REV.   E.   F.  RICE, 
Tcnnerstown,   Pa. 


ST.  PAUL'S  (FRITZ)  GARRETT 


been  served  by  Rev.  H.  D.  Hoover,  Rev.  Charles  Lambert  and 
the  present  pastor.  Improvements,  painting,  etc.,  were  made  in 
19 1 2,  to  the  extent  of  $200. 

Listie  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
The  desire  for  a  church  here  was  growing  for  some  time. 
Because  of  its  nearness  to  Friedens  the  pastor  was  not  favorable 
to  a  new  organization.  However,  after  some  little  time,  upon 
the  advice  of  the  older  members  of  the  Friedens  congregation 
and  the  president  of  the  Conference,  an  organization  was  effected 
with  forty  charter  members,  May  8,  19 10.  The  corner-stone  for 
the  edifice  was  laid  September  25,  1910.  The  building,  under 
the  contract  of  Mr.  H.  W.  Walker,  was  finished  and  dedicated 
August  6,  191 1.  It  is  a  frame  structure,  38  by  45  feet,  slate  roof, 
tower  and  bell.  The  three  large  beautiful  windows  were  donated 
by  the  other  congregations  of  the  charge.     The  cost  was  $5,000. 


GARRETT  CHARGE 

Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney,  Pastor 

St.  Paul  (Fritz)  Lutheran  Church 

garrett,  pav  r.  d. 

There  arose  in  the  Pine  Hill  congregation  some  feeling  of 
resentment  against  the  predominating  influence  of  the  Berlin 
congregation  over  the  former.  But  the  need  of  a  church  to  care 
for  people  living  near  and  west  of  the  Castleman  River  led 
chiefly  and  fully  to  the  decision,  May  4,  1842,  to  build  a  separate 
church.  William  Fritz  and  wife  Elizabeth,  upon  the  payment  of 
$1,  deeded  one  acre  of  ground  to  the  newly  elected  trustees, 
Frederick  P.  Walker,  John  Fritz  and  William  Fritz,  of  which 
land  the  original  patent  is  dated  1786.  A  building  committee 
consisting  of  Jacob  P.  Walker,  Frederick  P.  Walker  and  John 
Fritz  was  chosen.  The  first  of  these  suggested  the  name  "St. 
Paul"  for  the  new  church  ;  the  last  secured  most  of  the  money, 
about  $900.  With  this  there  was  erected  a  one-story  frame  build- 
ing, 50  by  30  feet,  which  stood  about  100  feet  south  of  the  pres- 
ent edifice.  Simon  Knepper  was  builder.  The  first  council, 
consisting  of  Jacob  P.  Walker,  elder;  William  Fritz.  Sr.,  George 

611 


SOMERSET  CONFEREXCE 


Fritz  and  William  G.  Stahl,  deacons,  was  installed  November  6, 
1842:  The  time  of  dedication  is  not  known,  though  thought  to 
have  been  in  1844,  under  Pastor  Winecoff. 

August  20,  1843,  the  first  communion  was  celebrated,  at  which 
time  eighty  persons  partook,  twenty-one  of  whom  had  been 
received  by  Pastor  Reese  the  day  previous,  by  confirmation.  The 
last  of  these,  Mrs.  Harriet  Walter-Judy,  born  in  182 1,  lived  in 
close  fellowship  until  her  death  in  1914. 

The  congregation  became  a  member  of  Alleghany  Synod 
October  3,  1845.     Preaching  service  was  held  but  once  a  month. 


THE    ST.    PAUL     (FRITZ)    LUTHERAN    CHURCH.      REV.    M.    L.    YOUNG,    PH.D. 


thnc  out  of  every  four  being  conducted  in  the  German  language. 
On  this  account  Rev.  Winecoff  consented  only  to  supply  the 
congregation  from  his  arrival  at  Berlin,  January  4.  1844,  until 
spring,  when  having  become  more  fluent  in  that  tongue,  became 
regular  pastor.  During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Charles  Young 
the  services  became  bi-weekly,  about  1846.  September  29,  1849, 
he  confirmed  a  class  of  twenty-six,  the  largest  class  in  the  his- 
tory  of  the  congregation.  Communions  were  held  about  twice 
a  vear.  At  Pastor  Young's  last,  June  7,  185T.  108  persons  par- 
612 


ST.  PAUL'S   (FRITZ),  GARRETT 


took  of  the  sacrament.  The  organization  of  Center  (1850),  and 
of  Meyersdale  (1851),  caused  a  great  loss  in  the  congregation's 
territory.  Accordingly  the  communicant  list  dropped  to  about 
forty  under  Pastors  Fair  and  Sheeder.  Rev.  Winecoff,  in  his 
second  time  of  service,  gave  English  and  German  equal  honor 
in  conveying  his  splendid  messages  of  sermon  and  prayer.  He 
was  a  great  power  in  the  pulpit,  and  the  last  of  the  pastors  to 
conduct  the  old-time  "revival  meetings."  He  reported  in  1865, 
his  first  year,  seventy-five  members,  and  gave  sacrament  to 
seventy- four  at  his  last  communion,  October  29,  1871. 

On  March  2,  1874,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Strauss,  it 
was  decided  at  a  congregational  meeting  to  build  a  new  church. 
The  building  committee  chosen  consisted  of  Peter  P.  H.  Walker, 
William  Fritz,  William  H.  Fritz,  Hiram  P.  Walker,  Silas  Walker, 
Herman  N.  Walker,  A.  J.  Boose  and  H.  C.  Wahl.  The  corner- 
stone was  laid  by  the  pastor,  August  4,  1874,  on  which  occasion 
Rev.  A.  M.  Whetstone  preached  a  German  sermon  (text  1  Cor. 
3:  11),  and  Rev.  D.  Earhart  an  English  one.  A  free  dinner  was 
served  to  600  persons,  and  $500,  in  addition  to  the  $5,000  previ- 
ously secured,  was  pledged.  The  completion  of  the  building 
was  made  under  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  who 
came  here  from  the  Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  July  II,  1875. 
August  1,  1875,  was  dedication  day.  Rev.  Whetstone  made  an 
appeal  for  funds,  and  $1,400  was  secured.  The  church  cost 
about  $8,000.  The  balance,  about  $900,  though  later  subscribed, 
was  finally  paid  personally  by  Peter  P.  H.  Walker.  The  dedica- 
tory sermon  was  delivered  by  James  A.  Brown,  D.D.,  LL.D., 
president  of  the  Gettysburg  Seminary,  from  Ex.  20 :  24.  Pastor 
Poffenberger  read  the  dedicatory  service. 

The  structure  is  a  two-story  building,  40  by  62^  feet,  of  solid 
brick  walls  (J.  L.  Curley,  contractor),  the  bricks  having  been 
made  in  a  field  near,  by  Alexander  Markle.  The  carpenter  was 
L.  Morrell,  of  Meyersdale,  the  building  being  a  reproduction  of 
the  M.  E.  Church  of  that  town.  In  the  ninety-six  foot  tower 
was  hung  a  912-pound  Meneely  bell.  This  tower  was  struck  by 
lightning  in  a  storm,  July,  1912,  and  removed. 

Rev.  Poffenberger  was  the  last  of  the  Berlin  pastors.  He  was 
the  first  to  use  the  English  language  exclusively.  He  resigned 
July,  1879. 

613 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


A  meeting  of  the  St.  Paul  council  with  that  of  Zion,  of  Meyers- 
dale,  in  August,  resulted  in  the  formation  of  a  new  charge  com- 
posed of  these  two  congregations.  Synod  ratified  the  same 
September  4,  1879.  October  18,  1879,  Rev.  J.  Milton  Snyder 
came  as  first  Myersdale  pastor.  Services  were  held  every  Sunday 
morning  and  afternoon,  alternately.  He  compiled  a  valuable 
history  of  the  congregation  up  to  December  30,  1883. 

In  1 88 1.  an  organ  costing  $165.50  was  bought,  and  first  used 
August  7.  A  special  meeting  of  Conference  to  celebrate  the 
400th  anniversary  of  Luther's  birth  was  held  here  November  14, 
1883,  addresses  being  made  by  Revs.  Stuff  t,  Welch,  Kuhlman, 
Whetstone,  Felton,  Nuner,  Shearer  and  Brodfuehrer.  Previous 
to  this  meeting  the  congregation  spent  $60  to  repaper  the 
auditorium. 

In  1898  the  building  was  re-roofed,  frescoed,  the  stoves  en- 
cased, at  the  cost  of  $300,  and  a  reopening  service  held  Septem- 
ber 25,  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  president  of  Synod,  being  the 
speaker. 

From  August  24,  1884,  to  the  same  date  in  1889,  Rev.  M.  L. 
Young  was  pastor  here  and  at  Meyersdale.  At  the  latter  date 
a  new  pastorate  known  as  St.  Paul's  Pastorate,  of  Meyersdale, 
was  formed  of  St.  Paul,  Garrett  and  Center.  Dr.  Young  also 
supplied  awhile  Mt.  Carmel  of  the  Wellersburg  charge.  In  1893 
the  St.  Michael's  congregation  of  Pine  Hill  was  received  from 
the  Berlin  charge,  in  place  of  Mt.  Carmel.  The  charge  as  then 
constituted  erected  a  parsonage  in  Garrett,  in  1902,  since  which 
time  it  is  known  as  St.  Paul's  Charge  of  Garrett.  During  his 
service  for  these  congregations.  Dr.  Young  proved  himself  a 
scholarly,  earnest  preacher,  a  faithful  and  devoted  pastor,  a  sys- 
tematic and  tireless  laborer,  a  fearless  and  loyal  citizen,  a  cher- 
ished friend,  and  a  well-beloved  man. 

During  his  pastorate  a  new  fence  was  built  around  the  ground 
(1893),  exterior  woodwork  and  spire  painted,  new  pulpit  furni- 
ture and  matting  secured  ;  the  church  was  beautifully  frescoed 
(1898)  and  great  advances  made  in  contributions  to  benevolence. 

The  first  organization  in  the  church  was  an  "Educational 
Society,"  organized  October  12,  1843.  It  was  a  member  of  the 
"Synodical  and  Missionary  Society,"  whose  purpose  was  to  raise 
monev  to  support  missions,  missionaries,  and  to  educate  worthy 
614 


ST.  PAUL'S  (FRITZ),  GARRETT 


young  men  for  the  ministry.  It  lived  three  years  and  contrib- 
uted $33.13  to  the  Synodical  Society.  Its  officers  were:  Presi- 
dent, Jacob  P.  Walker ;  secretary,  Perry  Walker ;  treasurer,  John 
Fritz,  with  William  Stahl,  Frederick  P.  Walker,  William  Fritz, 
Henry  Kuhlman,  Daniel  Hoover,  Benjamin  Bittner,  Eva  Fritz 
and  Elizabeth  Stahl  as  "directors."  It  met  on  Saturday  after- 
noons. 

The  Sabbath  school  was  organized  October  27,  1850,  in  a  new 
schoolhouse  which  stood  in  the  field  south  of  the  cemetery,  about 
twenty  rods  from  the  church.  It  was  called  "Mt.  Union,"  later 
changed  to  St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Sunday  school.  Fifty  were  pres- 
ent at  its  first  session.  The  church  kept  it  open  the  entire  first 
year. 

Its  first  officers  were :  President,  John  Fritz  ;  superintendents, 
Jacob  P.  W^alker,  Gerhardt  Meassman ;  librarian,  Jacob  Stahl ; 
secretary,  William  G.  Stahl ;  treasurer,  Jacob  Bowman ;  man- 
agers, Benjamin  Bittner,  Peter  P.  H.  Walker,  William  Fritz. 
Its  first  teachers  were :  Elijah  Walker,  Henry  Boose,  Jacob 
Countryman,  Nelson  Walker,  Frederick  Specht,  Aaron  W^alker, 
Mary  Countryman,  Henrietta  Walker,  Mary  Ann  Walker,  Han- 
nah Fregle,  Elizabeth  Walker.  The  first  separate  congregational 
report  to  Synod  (1862)  gives  100  members,  $18  benevolence, 
with  a  Sunday  school  of  forty-five  teachers  and  scholars. 

May  2,  1875,  the  Sunday  school  met  first  in  the  new  church, 
and  organized  as  follows :  President,  Herman  N.  Walker ; 
superintendents,  Silas  Walker,  Frederick  F.  Walker ;  secretary, 
Hiram  P.  Walker ;  librarian,  A.  J.  Boose ;  treasurer,  Miss  Mary 
Egolf ;  managers,  William  G.  Stahl,  H.  C.  Wahl,  Nelson  Domer ; 
chorister,  Alexander  Markle.  The  first  delegates  were  elected 
to  attend  the  Sunday  school  convention  at  Stoyestown,  1878,  and 
were  the  following:  Henry  C.  Wahl,  Simon  W.  Fritz,  Millard 
W.  Walker,  A.  J.  Boose,  Nelson  J.  Judy,  William  H.  Fritz,  Simon 
A.  Bittner,  Mrs.  A.  J.  Boose.  For  many  years  there  were  spell- 
ing and  "A,  B,  C"  classes  in  the  Sunday  school. 

The  longest  continuous  term  of  service  for  any  officer  was 
doubtless  the  office  of  Sunday  school  superintendent,  filled  by 
W.  E.  Walker  for  about  eighteen  years,  1893-1911. 

A  Wroman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organ- 
ized May  7,  1881,  consisting  of  seventeen  members.     Its  officers 

615 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


were:  President,  Mrs.  A.  J.  Boose;  vice-presidents,  Airs.  Her- 
man Walker  and  Mrs.  William  Fritz,  Sr. ;  treasurer,  Mrs.  Silas 
Walker ;  recording  secretary,  Annie  Walker ;  corresponding  sec- 
retary, Ellen  Fritz.  Under  the  leadership  of  Mrs.  Boose  and 
others  the  members  held  many  joyous  meetings,  and  received 
many  a  spiritual  uplift.  It  met  regularly  for  fifteen  years,  and 
contributed  to  the  Synodical  Society  about  $75. 

In  June,  1890,  there  was  organized  a  Christian  Endeavor 
Society,  which  in  1896  reorganized  as  a  Luther  League,  the  mem- 
bership being  fifty  and  their  contributions  reaching  a  total  of 
S40.     It  ceased  to  meet  after  1901. 

The  storm  of  191 2  wrecked  the  steeple  and  windows.  The 
geometric  cathedral  stained  glass  was  replaced  by  opalescent, 
with  painted  figures,  all  private  memorial  gifts  by  members.  In 
the  spring  of  1914.  an  altar,  the  gift  of  P.  B.  Walker,  also  an  or- 
gan platform  and  a  pipe  organ  were  added  at  a  cost  of  about 
$1,600.  Sheds  for  teams  and  autos  were  erected  in  1916,  and  in 
191 7,  new  stoves  procured,  two  additional  art  windows  placed, 
making  them  now  all  memorials,  and  a  Mothers'  Room  built. 

It  is  a  matter  of  some  pride  that  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman,  the  vet- 
eran pioneer  missionary  at  Ponca,  Nebr.,  was  received  into  mem- 
bership with  this  congregation,  May  15,  1847,  the  only  minister 
from  the  congregation.  His  parents  lived  on  what  is  known  as 
the  "Baer  Place,"  east  of  the  church.  Anna  Marie  Fritz  became 
the  first  wife  of  Rev.  L.  Gearhardt. 

List  of  pastors  from  Berlin:  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  1842  to 
1843;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1843  to  1846;  Rev.  Charles  Young, 
1846  to  1851  ;  Rev.  Elias  Fair,  1851  to  1856;  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder, 
1856  to  1864;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1864  to  1872;  Rev.  A.  M. 
Strauss,  1872  to  1875  ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  1875  to  1879. 
From  Meyersdale:  Rev.  J.  M.  Snyder,  1879  to  1884;  Rev.  M.  L. 
Young,  Ph.D.,  1884  to  December,  1900;  Rev.  A.  H.  Burk  (sup- 
ply), December,  1901,  to  June,  1902.  From  Garrett:  Rev.  W. 
E.  Brown,  June,  T902,  to  February,  1904;  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney, 
June,   1904,  to  . 

St.  Michael  Lutheran  Church,  Pink  Hill,  Pa. 
The  book,  one  of  the  oldest  church  records  of  the  Synod,  con- 
taining the  early  records  of  this  congregation,  was  bought   for 
61.6 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PIKE  HILL 


six  shillings  in  Philadelphia,  by  "Philson  and  Fletcher,"  Novem- 
ber 28,  1789,  "for  the  use  of  the  Lutheran  Church  in  Brothers 
Valley  Township,  Bedford  County."  There  follows  verse  1  of 
Is.  66,  in  German  script.  The  entries,  chiefly  of  baptisms,  are 
in  German,  Latin,  and  after  1836,  in  English.  The  first  bap- 
tisms recorded,  however,  were  performed  August  26,  1787.  It  is 
likely,  therefore,  that  a  congregation  was  organized  about  this 
time,  worshiped  in  the  schoolhouse,  and  was  served  by  Pastor 
Lizel  or  some  other  pastor,  perhaps  Rev.  John  Michael  Steck 
from  Chambersburg,  or  a  school  teacher.     In   1788,  Rev.   Steg 


ST.    MICHAEL    (PIXE   HILL)    LUTHERAX   CHURCH.     REV.    W.    R.    STAHL 


[English  Steck]  moved  to  Bedford,  and  served  congregations 
in  this  section  from  there.  He  confirmed  a  class  of  thirty-two 
April  22,  1 79 1,  Good  Friday,  and  held  communion  on  Easter, 
April  24.  The  ages  of  these  ranged  from  thirteen  to  twenty- 
seven  years.  Infant  baptisms  are  recorded  about  every,  three 
months,  which  indicates,  perhaps,  the  times  of  his  visits  and 
services.  His  last  entry  is  April  1,  1793.  If  he  was  here  then, 
he  came  from  Greensburg,  whither  he  had  moved  in  1792. 
Among  the  earliest  names  that  appear  we  find  some  still  in  the 

617 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Clerical  Roll  of  Somerset  Conference 


REV.    S.    N.    CARPENTER,    D.D., 
Johnstown,    Pa. 


REV.    F.    S.     SCHULTZ 
Summerhill,   Pa. 


REV.   W.  I.  GOOD, 
Johnstown,   Pa. 


REV.    H.    W.    BENDER,       REV.    JOHN    ERLER,    PH.D. 
Lilly,  Pa.  Rockwood,  Pa. 


REV.    \V.   E.    SUNDAY, 
Ilooversville,   Pa. 


REV.    E.    E.  ONEY, 
Elk   Lick,   Pa. 


618 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PINE  HILL 


community,  such  as  Schultz,  Engel,  Wacker,  Schmidt,  Berkly, 
Bittner,  Merker  (Marker),  Koch  (Cook),  Kuhlman  (Coleman), 
Baer,  Kober  (Cober),  Maurer,  Rauch,  Schadt,  Kiester,  Foust, 
Sutter  (Suder),  Fritz,  Baker,  etc. 

The  entries,  in  the  Latin  language,  from  May  27,  1793,  to 
August  22,  1813,  are  in  the  beautiful  handwriting  of  Rev.  Lange. 
He  confirmed  a  class  November  1,  1795,  of  thirty-three  persons, 
their  ages  ranging  from  14  to  29  years,  which  made  his  mem- 
bership forty-five. 

July  10,  1798,  Nickolas  Coleman  and  Frederika,  his  wife,  of 


INTERIOR   PINE   HILL      UNION      CHURCH 
(About   to   be   torn   down) 

his  land  secured  by  patent  of  date  June  10,  1797,  from  the  Com- 
monwealth, granted  to  Michael  Keffer  and  Michael  Miller,  in 
trust,  for  twenty  shillings,  one  acre  of  ground,  "for  the  use  of 
the  Lutheran  congregation  at  Pine  Hill  Church."  The  first 
house  of  worship  was  placed  in  what  is  now  the  cemetery,  and 
was  likely  erected  that  summer. 

As  the  first  pastor's  name  was  Michael,  and  he  had  been  or- 
dained in  St.  Michael's  Church,  Philadelphia,  and  as  that  was 
also  the  name  of  the  first  two  trustees,  it  likely  came  natural  to 
name  the  church  "St.  Michael." 

619 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


February  9,  1818,  the  Perm  heirs  granted  to  George  Walker 
and  George  Hay,  trustees  for  the  German  Lutheran  and  Ger- 
man Reformed  congregations,  respectively,  at  Pine  Hill,  twenty- 
three  acres  of  land  which  had  been  left  vacant  by  the  settlers 
for  school  and  church  purposes. 

In  1842,  members  of  the  congregation  living  towards  the 
Castleman  River  considered  it  convenient  and  advisable,  for  the 
sake  of  the  scattered  membership,  to  erect  a  church  nearer  them. 
The  St.  Paul  Church  thus  originated,  and  a  number  of  members 
withdrew  here. 

In  1847,  an  act  of  the  Legislature  was  passed  which  allowed 


PINE    HILL      UNION      CHURCH 


the  selling  of  twenty  acres  of  the  land  secured  in  1818.  Accord- 
ingly, there-  was  built  in  1848  with  the  money,  the  "Union"  brick 
church,  owned  jointly  by  the  Lutherans  and  the  Reformed  people, 
these  latter  having  worshiped  hitherto  in  Berlin.  It  was  40  by 
26  feet,  had  a  gallery  on  three  sides  and  a  high  pulpit,  after  the 
style  of  those  days.     The  cost  was  $1,000. 

The  two  congregations  apparently  got  along  harmoniously  until 
the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Eli  Fare,  1851-1854.  This  pastor  appar- 
ently had  zeal,  but  not  "according  to  knowledge."  He  was  more 
enthusiastic  for  the  revival  methods  of  the  time  than  his  congre- 
620 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PINE  HILL 


gation,  and  thus  he  estranged  some.  But  he  showed  on  two  par- 
ticular occasions  serious  and  fatal  lack  of  judgment  and  tact. 
While  preaching  on  missions,  an  influential  member  had  occa- 
sion to  withdraw  from  the  audience.  The  pastor,  thinking  per- 
haps that  he  disapproved  of  the  sermon,  remarked  to  the  effect 
that  though  the  brother  might  run  away  from  the  sermon,  he 
couldn't  run  away  from  hell.  Upon  another  occasion,  he  repri- 
manded a  leading  family  whose  sugar  camp  was  rented  to  another 
party,  for  allowing  this  renter  to  haul  sugar-water  on  the  Sabbath. 


ST.    MICHAEL  LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    PINE    HILL,    PA.,    OF    i860 

He  became  so  offensive  that  he  was  finally  threatened  with  a  gun 
if  he  didn't  leave. 

The  result  was  that  a  petition  was  sent  to  Alleghany  Synod 
in  1854,  signed  by  twenty-seven  members  of  the  congrega- 
tion, asking  permission  to  withdraw  from  the  Berlin  charge. 
A  paper  signed  by  twenty-three  members  of  the  Berlin  congrega- 
tion was  also  presented,  asking  Synod  to  refuse.  In  1855,  after 
a  committee,  consisting  of  Revs.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  William  Kopp 
and  J-  K.  Miller,  had  investigated  the  difficulties  and  reported  to 
Synod,  Synod  refused  the  request,  but  gave  the  Pine  Hill  con- 

621 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


gregation  the  privilege  for  the  time  being  to  ask  any  pastor  of 
the  Alleghany  Synod  to  supply  them.     Feeling,  no  doubt,  that 
Synod  had  not  properly  treated  them,  Rev.  Franz  Julius  Bilz,  of 
Cumberland,  Md.,  was  invited  to  visit  them,  a  member  of  the 
.Missouri   Synod.     Sometime  after  his  visit,  a  majority  of  the 
congregation  voted  to  leave  the  General  Synod  and  to  become 
a  member  of  the  Missouri  Synod,  with  Rev.  Bilz  as  pastor.    The 
Reformed   congregation   now   withdrew  and  built  the   "Hays'  " 
Church,   in   1856.     Rev.  Bilz  served   from  about   1856  to   i860. 
The  departure  of  this  pastor  from  the  charge  seemed  the  occa- 
sion  for  the  reorganization   of   a  new   General   Synod   Church, 
having   for   a  nucleus   some   of   the   original   congregation   who 
declined  to  go  to  the  Missouri  Synod.    Accordingly  the  General 
Synod  pastor  at  Berlin,  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder,  secured  the  follow- 
ing officers,  August  17,  i860:    Daniel  Fritz,  Samuel  Boger  and 
William  G.  Coleman,  trustees.     September  22,  a  constitution  was 
adopted,  a  charter  asked  for,  and  October  20,  of  the  same  year,  a 
congregation  was  organized  by  the  election  of  Daniel  Fritz  and 
John    G.    Walker,    elders ;    William    N.    Coleman    and    Nickolas 
Dickey,  deacons.    A  charter  was  secured  on  the  petition  of  Daniel 
Fritz,  Jno.  G.  Walker,  Nickolas  Dickey,  Samuel  Boger,  William 
G.   Coleman,   Jonathan   Walker,   William   N.   Coleman,    Samuel 
Stahl  and  Solomon  Coleman,  on  April  22,  186 1.    A  legal  suit  in 
the  County  Court  for  the  right  of  possession  of  the  brick  church 
resulted   in   a  verdict    for   the    General    Synod.      The    Supreme 
Court,   however,   overruled   this   and   decided   that   each    Synod 
had  a  right  to  it.     The  General  Synod  supporters  then  secured 
a  lot  of  one-fourth  acre  for  $20,  deed  dated  November  10,  i860, 
from  William  N.  Coleman  and  Matilda  Coleman,  his  wife,  and 
Henry  N.  Coleman  and  Mary  Ann  Coleman,  his  wife,  and  erected 
thereon  a  second  "St.  Michael's"  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church. 
It  was  dedicated  October  13,  1861,  by  Rev.  Sheeder.     It  was  a 
frame  building,  35  by  50  feet,  a  gallery  at  the  rear,  a  tower  and  a 
416-pound  bell,  cast  in  England.     On  the  day  of  dedication,  the 
following  seventeen  persons  were  enrolled  as  charter  members : 
John  G.  Walker,  Nickolas  Dickey,  William  N.  Coleman,  Daniel 
Fritz.  Samuel  Boger,  Samuel  Stahl,  Solomon  Coleman,  Susannah 
1  [ay,    Catharine    Dickey,    Dinah    Boger,    William    G.    Coleman, 
Phoebe  Cover,  Maria  Turner,  Emeline  Hay,  Mary  A.  Coleman, 
622 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PINE  HILL 


Ludwig  Kobe,  Catharine  Kobe. 

At  this  same  service,  Amos  Walker,  E.  J.  Walker,  Joseph 
Walker,  Simon  P.  Fritz  and  Elizabeth  Kobe  were  confirmed,  and 
Elizabeth  and  Sally  Dickey  received  by  adult  baptism,  making  a 
membership  of  twenty-four,  to  whom  communion  was  then 
administered.  The  first  infant  baptisms  recorded  are  those  of 
Lizzie  Coleman  and  Susan  Malinda  Bittner,  October  26,  1862. 
The  first  communion  offering  recorded  is  for  October  25,  1863, 
when  nineteen  communed  and  the  offering  was  $1.67.  In  1865, 
Rev.  Winecoff  reported  thirty  members  and  $19.15  benevo- 
lence.    For  the  first  ten  years,  progress  continued  slow.     The 


SOLOMON     COLEMAN 


SAMUEL    STAHL 


use  of  the  German  language  was  discarded,  under  the  enthusi- 
astic leadership  of  Pastor  Poffenberger.  The  efficient  Pastor 
Gruver  began  to  reap  the  sowing  in  increased  members  and  to 
see  events  point  to  a  time  when  the  General  Synod  would  again 
come  into  possession  of  its  own.  Repairs  to  the  building  and 
gains  to  the  church  were  made  under  the  devoted  care  of  Dr. 
M.  L.  Young,  of  whose  pastorate  St.  Michael's  became  a  part 
in  1893.  New  pulpit  furniture  and  matting  were  received  in 
1894. 

By  1903  the  congregation  felt  itself  able  to  erect  a  new  church. 
It  extended  an  invitation  to  the  seven  surviving  members  of  the 

623 


CLERICAL  ROLL 


Clerical  Roll  of  Somerset  Conference 


REV.    E.    R.     M.    SHEEDER,  REV.    H.    0.    REYNOLDS,        REV.    H.   C.    MICHAEL,  D.D. 

Portage,    Pa.  Sidman,   Pa.  Johnstown,    Pa. 


REV.    H.   C.   SUMMERS. 
Confluence,    Pa. 


REV.    J.    LUTHER    FRANTZ, 
Meyersdale.    Pa. 


REV.   VV.  A.   BOWMAN, 
Cairnbrook,    Pa. 


REV.    G.    E.    MCCARNEY, 
Sipesville,    Pa. 


6_'4 


REV.   C.   E.   BERKEY, 

Shanksville,    Pa. 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PINE  HILL 


Missouri  Synod  congregation  to  unite  with  it  in  the  enterprise, 
as  the  "Union"  Brick  was  also  too  old  to  be  profitably  repaired. 
This  was  agreed  to  by  them.  The  St.  Michael  congregation  then 
paid  to  the  Mt.  Zion,  or  Hay,  German  Reformed  congregation 
the  sum  of  $150  for  whatever  right,  title  or  interest  they  might 
have  in  the  remaining  three  acres,  thirty-five  perches,  of  the 
original  twenty-three  acres  of  the  1818  grant.  By  deed  dated 
August  13,  1904,  Peter  Gumbert,  surviving  trustee,  conveyed  to 
the  St.  Michael  congregation  a  portion  (one  and  one-half  acres) 
of  the  tract  and  the  present  structure  was  erected  during  that 
summer.     The  corner-stone  was  laid  July  10,   1904,  the  sermon 


JONATHAN    G.    WALKER,   PINE    HILL 


being  preached  by  Rev.  R.  L.  Patterson  and  money  solicited  by 
Rev.  R.  S.  Patterson.  On  December  4,  1904,  the  beautiful  edi- 
fice was  dedicated.  Services  were  held  during  the  preceding 
week,  Rev.  William  Knoke,  pastor  of  the  Missouri  congregation, 
preaching  an  excellent  sermon  on  "Justification  by  Faith,"  and 
Rev.  W.  R.  Stahl,  a  son  of  the  congregation,  on  Rom.  14 :  7. 
Rev.  E.  J.  Wolf,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  Professor  of  New  Testament 
Exegesis  at  Gettysburg  Seminary,  preached  the  dedicatory  ser- 
mon; text,  Matt.  16:18,  19.  Offerings  were  solicited  by  the 
former  pastor,  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  and  the  church  dedicated 
free  of  debt  in  the  evening,  by  the  pastor,  after  a  sermon  by 
the  preceding  pastor,  Rev.  W.  E.  Brown. 

The  main  building  is  50  by  30  feet,  the  brick,  art  windows,  and 

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all  interior  furnishing,  of  superior  grade.  The  annexed  Sunday 
school  room  is  30  by  22  feet.  The  total  cost  was  $8,000.  Among 
the  special  gifts  were  three  memorial  windows  and  quartered 
oak  pulpit  furniture,  presented  by  J.  Harry  Fritz,  Esq.,  once  a 
boy  of  the  congregation.  Amos  Walker,  H.  J.  Walker,  E.  J. 
Walker,  John  Gambert,  F.  C.  Lichty,  W.  J.  Gumbert  and  Pastor 
Carney,  were  the  building  committee.  Two  of  the  charter  mem- 
bers, Samuel  Stahl  and  Solomon  Coleman,  lived  to  worship  in 
the  new  church. 

On  May  8,  1905,  the  frame  church  was  deeded  to  S.  P.  Fritz, 
who,  after  remodeling,  uses  it  for  his  home.     On  November  6, 

1910,  the  "Union"  Church  was  sold  to  George  Gumbert,  who 
removed  the  same  and  built  of  it  a  dwelling-house.    February  12, 

191 1,  Peter  Gumbert,  surviving  trustee  of  the  Missouri  congre- 
gation, was  received  by  the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  and  in  like 
manner,  on  January  28,  1912,  Henry  Gumbert  and  Peter  Baker, 
the  remaining  resident  members.  With  them  came  also  the  resi- 
due, about  $700,  of  a  legacy  of  $1,000,  given  to  "the  Lutheran 
Church  at  Pine  Hill  for  the  support  of  the  preaching  of  the 
gospel,"  by  George  Fritz,  the  interest  of  which  is  to  be  given  to 
the  pastor  in  addition  to  the  stated  salary.  They  also  conveyed 
the  remaining  portion  of  the  tract  of  1818,  about  one  and  three- 
fourths  acres,  which  was  then  resold  to  Henry  Gumbert  for 
$250,  the  interest  of  which  sum  is  to  go  to  the  keeping  up  of 
the  cemetery. 

And  thus,  after  two  generations  of  divided  homes  and 
estranged  friends,  there  is  again  none  but  a  General  Synod 
Lutheran  Church  at  Pine  Hill,  as  there  was  prior  to  1846.  The 
fathers  preferred  the  German  language  and  the  historic  liturgi- 
cal order,  while  the  children  naturally  chose  the  English  and  the 
less  formal  service  of  the  General  Synod  congregation.  The 
harvester,  Death,  did  the  rest.  He  steadily  reaped  among  the 
riper  grain,  until  of  the  three  score  or  more  there  were  left  but 
three  golden  sheaves  for  us  to  gather  from  the  German  congre- 
gation of  the  fathers  and  keep  awhile  until  the  final  Harvest 
Home. 

The  Sunday  School 

There  had  been  a  Sunday  school  in  the  "Union"  Church,  date 
of  organization  unknown.  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff  reports  in  1865 
626 


ST.  MICHAEL'S,  PINE  HILL 


a  Sunday  school  of  twenty  members.  But  the  local  records  of 
the  new  congregation  of  i860  show  that  a  Sunday  school  was 
first  organized  April  24,  1870.  It  met  in  the  nearby  schoolhouse, 
and  was  for  seven  years  a  union  school.  Its  first  organization 
was  as  follows :  President,  Joseph  Walker ;  vice-president, 
Henry  S.  Coleman ;  superintendents,  Solomon  Coleman  and  Sam- 
uel Stahl ;  secretary,  John  R.  Boose  ;  librarian,  Irvin  P.  Walker ; 
treasurer,  Amos  Walker ;  managers,  John  Stahl,  Aaron  F.  Bitt- 
ner  and  Joseph  Brugh ;  teachers,  Benjamin  Dickey,  Simon  P. 
Fritz,  Amos  Walker,  Elias  Cober,  Albert  Hay,  Annie  M.  Cober, 
Mary  W^alker,  Mary  Laub,  Belle  Hauger,  Samantha  Dull,  Annie 
M.  Turner.  The  superintendents  to  1877  were  Simon  P.  Fritz, 
Samuel  Stahl,  Joseph  Brugh,  E.  J.  Walker,  Joseph  Walker.  In 
this  year  this  school  of  fifteen  officers  and  teachers  and  seventy 
scholars  and  $6.27  of  an  annual  offering,  was  transferred  to  the 
church,  and  became  a  Lutheran  school.  Other  superintendents 
who  have  served  for  some  time  since  include  J.  R.  Boose.  Ernest 
Smith,  H.  J.  W^alker,  George  A.  Stahl,  W.  J.  Gumbert,  Joseph 
F.  Stahl,  John  H.  Rhoads.  Starting  with  $4.50  for  its  first 
year's  offerings  (school  was  open  for  six  months  only),  it 
reached  §22  in  1886,  $42  by  1896,  $170  by  1906,  and  $300  in 
1916. 

A  Brief  Sketch  of  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder,  Organiser  of  the  Second 
St.  Michael  Church  at  Pine  Hill 

Rev.  Philip  Sheeder  was  born  in  Chester  County,  Pa.,  in  the. 
year  1819.  He  attended  Pennsylvania  College  at  Gettysburg  and 
graduated  from  this  institution  in  the  year  1847,  and  from  the 
Seminary  in  1849. 

His  first  charge  was  Brookville,  Jefferson  County,  Pa.,  where 
he  served  faithfuly  till  1853,  when  he  was  called  to  the  Black 
Hole  Valley  charge,  Lycoming  County.  Having  resigned  this 
charge  he  accepted  a  call  to  Berlin,  Somerset  County.  From  here 
he  went  to  the  Wilmore  charge,  serving  the  congregation  of 
Scalp  Level  and  Elton  earnestly  and  faithfully. 

His  work  there,  as  elsewhere,  was  not  without  its  fruitage. 
Many  of  his  members  remember  him  gratefully.  From  this 
charge  he  was  called  successively  to  the  following  places :  Mar- 
tinsburg,  Blair  County;  New  Berlin,  Lnion  County ;  New  Bloom- 

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field,  Perry  County  ;  Idaville,  Adams  County ;  Silver  Run,  Car- 
roll County,  Md. 

Shortly  before  his  death  his  house  burned  down  with  all  his 
personal  effects,  books,  sermons  and  other  papers.  This  partly 
accounts  for  brevity  and  indefiniteness  in  this  sketch.  He  died 
October  21,  1906,  in  triumph  of  the  Christian  faith  which  he 
preached  not  only  to  the  people  of  this  charge  but  to  all  he 
served  so  well,  his  mantle  having  fallen  to  his  son;  Rev.  B.  R. 
M.  Sheeder. 

The  Ladies'  Aid  Society 

April  12,  1901,  eleven  of  the  Sunday  school  members  met  at 
the  home  of  Mrs.  Samuel  Stahl  and  organized  a  "Willing  Work- 
ers' Society"  by  electing :  Miss  Lizzie  Stahl,  president ;  Miss 
Lillian  Pritz,  vice-president ;  Miss  Lillian  Fritz,  secretary ;  and 
Mrs.  J.  C.  Werner,  treasurer.  For  four  years  they  met  twice 
a  month,  and  in  various  ways  contributed  more  than  $1,300  to 
the  church.  The  organ,  carpet,  reflector,  Bethany  Home  win- 
dow, pews,  hymnals,  marble  font,  altar  cloths,  individual  com- 
munion outfit,  hymn  board,  choir  lamps,  vacuum  cleaner,  organ 
mirror,  rubber  mats,  lawn  mower,  and  a  lifesize  front  wall 
painting  in  oil,  "Easter  Morning," — all  these  are  memorials  of 
their  good  taste,  devotion,  and  sacrifice. 

Luther  League 
The  first  Luther  League  in  Somerset  County  was  organized 
in  St.  Michael's  Church,  December  22,  1894,  Rev.  M.  L.  Young, 
pastor.  Its  first  officers  were :  President,  George  A.  Stahl ; 
vice-president,  F.  A.  Stuck ;  secretary,  Miss  Tillie  B.  Stahl ; 
treasurer,  William  Gumbert.  It  met  weekly  for  about  five  years, 
and  contributed  about  $75  to  various  objects.  During  July  30-31, 
1896,  it  entertained  the  fourth  semi-annual  County  Convention 
of  Leagues  of  the  county. 

Woman's  Home   and  Foreign   Missionary  Society 
This,  the  latest  of  the  church's  societies,  was  organized  Octo- 
ber 31,  1915,  by  the  Conference  Convention,  guests  of  the  con- 
gregation, with  twenty-four  active  charter  members  and  eleven 
honorary  charter  members. 

The  first  officers  were:  President,  Mrs.  Harvey  J.  Walker; 
vice-president,  Mrs.  Wilson  J.  Gumbert;  recording  secretary, 
62S 


MT.  TABOR,  GARRETT 


Miss  Tillie  Stahl ;  corresponding  secretary,  Miss  May  Walker ; 
treasurer,  Mrs.  J.  C.  Werner.  Contributions  for  1916  were  $59.12. 

In  October,  191 7,  Bruce  Hay  and  Paul  Luther,  sons  of  the 
pastor,  were  made  the  first  life  members  of  the  society. 

During  1911,  the  church  membership  passed  from  ninety-two 
to  no,  and  has  remained  above  this  latter  number  since.  Of 
the  members  of  this  congregation  the  great  majority  are  inter- 
ested and  devoted,  and  their  church,  in  consequence,  has  influence 
in  the  community  and  a  high  standing  in  the  Synod. 

Revs.  Ephraim  Dickey  and  William  R.  Stahl  are  the  congrega- 
tion's gift  to  the  ministry. 

Pastors  :  Rev.  Michael  John  Steck  (Steg),  1788  to  1793  ;  Rev. 
Frederick  William  Lange,  1793  to  1813;  Rev.  Ernest  H.  Tied'e- 
man,  1813  to  1819;  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler,  1819  to  1834;  Rev. 
George  Leiter,  1834  to  1835;  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  1835  to  1840; 
Rev.  Louis  Gustiniani,  1840  to  1842;  Rev.  Charles  Reese,  1842 
to  1843 ;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1844  to  1846;  Rev.  Charles  Young, 
1846  to  1851  ;  Rev.  Elias  Fare,  1851  to  1854;  Rev.  Franz  J.  Bilz, 
1856  to  i860  (Missouri  Synod)  ;  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder,  i860  to 
1864;  Rev.  Jess.e  Winecoff,  1864  to  1872;  Rev.  A.  M.  Strauss, 
1872  to  1875 ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  1875  to  1885 ;  Rev.  C.  B. 
Gruver,  1886  to  1893 ;  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  1893  to  :901  >  ^ev- 
A.  H.  Burke  (supply),  1901  to  1902;  Rev.  W.  E.  Brown,  1902 
to  1904 ;  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney.  1904  to  . 

Mt.  Tabor  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

garrett,  pa. 

One  of  the  earliest  persons  to  come  to  what  was  Brothers' 
Valley  Township  of  Bedford  County,  which  county  was  only 
separated  in  1771  from  Cumberland  County,  was  Mathias  Judia, 
who  lived  with  Henry  Rhoads  who  took  up  land  near  where 
Fogeltown  now  is,  one  mile  north  of  Garrett.  In  1775  he  bought 
one  hundred  acres  along  the  Buffalo,  of  Mr.  Rhoads,  for  £75,  that 
he  might  hunt  and  fish.  He  became  a  soldier  in  the  Revolution, 
and  in  1795  had  a  saw  mill.  He  was  likely  one  of  the  first 
Lutherans  in  the  community  and  was  a  member  at  Pine  Hill, 
where  he  is  buried.  His  grandchildren  are  the  older  generation 
of  the  Judy  families  now  among  us. 

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The  construction  of  the  Pittsburgh  and  Connellsville  Railroad 
through  what  was  farm  lands  of  Peter  P.  H.  Walker,  caused 
a  town  to  come  here.  The  first  resident  was  Franklin  Enos,  of 
Mil  ford  Township,  who  erected  a  store  near  the  junction  of 
Buffalo  Creek  with  the  Castleman  River,  about  1868.  Some 
time  later  he  opened  a  union  Sunday  school  in  the  house  at  pres- 
ent occupied  by  W.  H.  Miller,  then  the  office  of  the  Ernest  & 
Delp  Lumber  Company.  For  awhile  it  met  in  the  schoolhouse, 
and  later  in  the  Lutheran  Church.  One  of  the  first  scholars  to 
attend  was  Charles  H.  Tilp,  now  Pastor  Tilp  of  Cleveland,  Ohio. 


JIT.    TABOR    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH    GARRETT,    PA.     (BUILT    1884) 
REV.    W.    E.    BROWN 

In  the  earliest  Sunday  school  record  in  possession  of  the  Luth- 
eran Church  there  are  reports  of  a  Sunday  school  of  the  years 
1854-1857,  which  was  apparently  under  United  Brethren  man- 
agement.   The  organization  never  became  permanent. 

Early  in  1871,  the  erection  of  a  Lutheran  Church  was  begun 
under  the  care  of  Rev.  Jesse  Winecofr,  who  had  preached  for 
some  time  in  the  schoolhouse.  It  was  dedicated  by  him  the  first 
Sunday  of  October  that  year.  The  deeds  for  two  lots  were 
63(1 


MT.  TABOR,  GARRETT 


granted  to  Baltzer  Walter,  in  trust,  for  $100.  The  lumber  for 
the  building  was  furnished  by  Mr.  Enos.  It  is  a  frame  building, 
about  40  by  24  feet,  the  same  building  now  owned  and  occupied 
by  the  United  Evangelical  congregation,  and  cost  $800. 

The  Lutheran  congregation  was  organized  December  13,  1871, 
by  electing  a  church  council  and  the  adoption  of  the  Rules  and 
Discipline  of  the  General  Synod.  The  council  consisted  of 
Andrew  Hoover,  Baltzer  Walter,  elders ;  Jacob  Christner,  Wil- 
liam Fisher,  Chauncy  Hoover,  deacons.  The  elders  were  also 
elected  as  trustees.  Bylaws  were  adopted  which  called  for  a 
yearly  election  of  one-half  of  the  officers,  at  each  new  year,  the 
number  to  be  two  elders,  four  deacons  and  two  trustees,  any  of 
which  might  be  re-elected.  Rev.  Winecoff  resigned  in  April, 
1872.     His   successor  at  Berlin  was   Rev.   A.    M.   Strauss,  who 


PARSONAGE,,    GARRETT 

served  one  vear,-  reporting  one  confirmation,  twenty-four  com- 
municants, one  prayer  meeting,  one  Sunday  school  with  eight 
teachers  and  sixty  scholars. 

The  congregation  was  much  neglected  for  ten  years.  Janu- 
ary 8,  in  1874,  Rev.  I.  B.  Crist  held  a  communion  here.  On 
January  31,  1875,  a  communion  was  held  by  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker. 
Rev.  J.  A.  Koser,  pastor  at  Salisbury,  gave  occasional  services 
August,  1875,  to  August,  1876.  During  1878,  two  communions 
were  held  by  members  of  Conference  assigned  to  the  duty.  Prog- 
ress was  slow.  The  congregation  was  very  small.  The  Sunday 
school,  however,  under  the  fostering  care  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Enos,  George  Tilp,  Mr.  Kessler  and  Baltzar  Walter,  continued 
to  flourish,  there  being  no  other  one  in  the  town.     In  1876  Mr. 

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Tilp,  who  had  attended  the  Centennial  in  Philadelphia,  brought 
back  some  Augsburg  helps,  and  by  their  introduction  made  the 
school  Lutheran.  The  school  was  open  all  year,  had  an  at- 
tendance of  about  fifty,  with  collections  from  one  cent  to  twenty- 
five  cents.  The  secretary  during  1879  was  C.  J.  Ringer,  Lutheran 
pastor  now  at  Council  Bluffs,  Iowa,  the  only  son  of  the  congre- 
gation in  the  ministry  so  far. 

Kessler  and  Walter  were  exhorters  of  unusual  power.  About 
this  time  they  conducted  a  thirteen  weeks'  mourners'  bench 
revival.  Seventy  persons  professed  conversion.  During  1878- 
1879,  fi^y  adults  joined  the  congregation,  making  the  total  mem- 


MT.   TABOR  LUTHERAN  CHURCH,  OF   IQI4,  GARRETT,  PA. 


bership  sixty-three.  Rev.  John  Unruh,  of  Centerville,  who 
preached  occasionally  during  1 879-1881,  and  Rev.  Poffenberger, 
received  these  converts.  In  1881  the  congregation  and  Sunday 
school  each  numbered  seventy-six.  Rev.  J.  B.  Shoup  supplied, 
January  10,  1882.  to  April  1,  1883.  A  debt  unprovided  for  at 
the  time  of  the  dedication  amounted  at  this  time  to  $253,  held 
against  the  church  by  Baltzar  Walter.  It  was  paid  in  full,  out 
of  friendship  for  the  members,  by  Peter  P.  H.  Walker,  of  the  St. 
Paul  congregation.  About  this  time  Mr.  Walter  withdrew  and 
opened  in  a  private  house  another  Sunday  school,  from  which  de- 
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MT.  TABOR,  GARRETT 


veloped  the  Evangelical  congregation. 

Occasional  services  were  conducted  by  pastors  appointed  by 
conference  during  1883.  Rev.  J.  M.  Snyder,  of  Meyersdale, 
supplied  it  January  to  July,  1884.  His  successor,  Rev.  M.  L. 
Young,  Ph.D.,  supplied  it  regularly  from  August  1,  1884,  to  the 
meeting  of  Synod,  1887,  when  it  was  made  an  integral  part  of  the 
Meyersdale  charge.     It  has  had  regular  pastoral  care  since. 

In  1884  a  building  in  course  of  erection  by  the  Evangelical 
congregation  was  sold  by  the  sheriff.  It  was  purchased  by  the 
Lutherans  for  the  sum  of  $425,  who  in  turn  sold  their  own  two 
lots  and  building  to  the  Evangelical  people.  An  additional  $195 
was  spent  to  complete  the  new  building,  a  frame  structure,  26  by 
42  feet,  situated  on  a  hill,  and  named  Mt.  Tabor.  A  corner- 
stone was  inserted  July  11,  1885,  the  sermon  being  preached  by 
Rev.  M.  L.  Beard.  Revs.  L.  N.  Fleck  and  J.  W.  Poffenberger 
were  also  present.  The  next  day,  Rev.  S.  J.  Taylor  preached  the 
sermon  of  dedication.  In  1894  the  walls  were  papered,  new 
carpets  laid,  and  opalescent  memorial  windows  placed,  Rev.  B. 
B.  Collins  preaching  at  the  reopening  service,  May  27.  Rev. 
W.  E.  Brown  had  a  pulpit  recess  added  in  1903.  During  the 
present  pastorate,  there  were  secured  new  carpets,  electric  light- 
ing, warm  air  heating,  pulpit  furniture  and  walks. 

In  the  fall  of  1912,  the  lots  and  building  were  purchased  by 
the  B.  &  O.  Railroad  Company,  for  the  sum  of  $5,000.  The  con- 
gregation, forced  to  migrate  and  build,  elected  a  building  com- 
mittee to  erect  a  new  church  home.  This  committee,  J.  H. 
Nedrow,  Rudolf  Christner,  Mahlon  Christner,  U.  S.  Lape,  Wil- 
liam Clements  and  the  pastor,  purchased  two  corner  lots  of  Elder 
N.  J.  Judy,  in  the  heart  of  the  town,  for  $2,000,  Mr.  Judy  donat- 
ing $300  of  the  purchase  price.  Ground  was  broken  in  March, 
1913.  As  about  all  the  material  and  much  of  the  labor  were 
secured  locally,  few  contracts  being  given,  the  building  was  not 
complete  until  October,  1914. 

The  structure  is  brick-cased,  60  by  76  by  20  feet,  the  Sunday 
school  room  separated  by  accordion  doors.  The  interior  is  fin- 
ished in  hardwood  and  has  some  unique  features,  such  as  wood 
chandeliers,  a  tiled  vestibule  (a  gift  from  the  pastor),  a  paint- 
ing of  the  founder  of  the  church,  Rev.  Winecoff  (a  gift  of  the 
Berlin  Lutheran  Sunday  school),  one  of  the  first  regular  pastors, 

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Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.  (a  gift  of  the  Meyersdale  Luther 
League),  and  a  window  each,  as  a  gift  from  the  other  three 
Sunday  schools  of  the  present  pastorate,  St.  Paul,  St.  Michael 
and  Center.  A  baptismal  font  was  presented  by  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
\V.  L.  Brant.  An  "Easter  Morn"  window,  the  gift  of  the  Ladies' 
Aid  Society,  is  an  adaptation  of  the  "Women  at  the  Tomb"  by 
Plockhurst,  to  the  "Gordon  Tomb"  and  Mt.  of  Olives,  from 
photographs  as  they  appear  to-day,  an  unusual  work  of  art. 
The  Enos  window  commemorates  the  thirty-eight  years  which 
the  founder  of  the  Sunday  school  served  as  its  superintendent. 
The  other  windows  are  all  gifts  of  Sunday  school  classes,  or 
memorial.     It  cost,  including  lot,  in  money  but  $15,000. 

The  persons  who  were  most  closely  associated  with  the  origin 
and  early  development  of  the  religious  work  of  the  town  were 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Franklin  Enos.  He  came  here  from  Meyersdale 
about  1868  and  opened  a  store  ;  the  first  citizen,  first  merchant, 
first  postmaster,  first  justice  of  the  peace,  first  burgess,  as  he  had 
been  of  Meyersdale,  serving  also  many  years  on  the  school  board 
and  town  council.  He  was  catechised  under  Rev.  Lawson,  at 
the  Laurel  Church,  but  was  not  confirmed.  He  was  awakened  to 
religious  conviction  by  the  death  of  a  comrade  in  the  Civil  War, 
and  united  with  the  United  Brethren  church,  at  Rockwood.  He 
was  for  a  while  superintendent  of  the  Lutheran,  the  Dunker  and 
of  a  Sunday  school  at  Althouse,  all  at  the  same  time.  He  with- 
drew from  the  school  temporarily  in  1883,  and,  with  Mr.  Baltzar 
Walter,  organized  the  Evangelical  Sunday  school ;  but  through 
the  influence  of  Mrs.  Enos,  a  member  of  the  Lutheran  Church, 
returned  and  served  again  as  superintendent  almost  till  his  death 
in  191 2,  at  the  age  of  eighty-two  years.  In  1899,  he  organized 
a  society  of  young  people  which  he  conducted  with  singing  and  in 
answering  difficult  Bible  questions.  He  was  for  years  a  can- 
vassing Bible  agent,  and  visited  all  sections  of  the  county. 

The  Aid  Society  had  been  organized  already  in  October,  1909, 
for  the  purpose  of  securing  a  building  fund  toward  the  erection 
of  a  new  and  more  modern  church  edifice.  Its  first  officers  were : 
Mrs.  Zack  Walter,  president;  Mrs.  Perry  Sheeler,  vice-president; 
Mrs.  C.  D.  Fritz,  secretary,  and  Mrs.  Sadie  Rector,  treasurer. 
Through  the  untiring  efforts  of  the  members,  working  awhile  in 
two  sections,  for  the  most  part  together  and  harmoniously,  a 
634 


CENTER,  SUMMIT  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  COUNTY 

sum  exceeding  $2,100  has  been  paid  by  them,  the  carpets,  pews 
and  steel  ceilings  being  some  of  the  individual  items  presented. 

The  Sunday  school  has  always  been  well  conducted.  Of  late 
its  superintendents  have  been  N.  J.  Judy,  U.  S.  Lape,  C.  D.  Fritz, 
J.  H.  Nedrow  and  Zack  Walter. 

The  charge  as  now  constituted  erected,  in  1902,  a  seven- 
roomed  parsonage,  26  by  32  feet,  on  a  corner  lot  in  Garrett,  at  a 
cost  of  $2,500,  and  is  since  known  as  the  Garrett  charge. 

The  congregation  experienced  a  genuine  revival  as  the  result 
of  a  cottage  prayer  meeting  campaign  during  1914-1915,  which 
doubled  the  membership  and  manifested  itself  in  increased  gifts, 
greater  lay  activity,  and  a  fuller  devotion  to  all  its  interests. 

Center  Lutheran  Church 
summit  township,  somerset  county,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  founded  by  persons  who  were  com- 
pelled previously  to  attend  services  at  Salisbury  or  St.  Paul 
(Fritz),  and  before  that  at  Pine  Hill,  where  the  names  Merker 
(  Marker)  and  Schadt  are  found,  ancestors  of  some  of  the  Center 
church  members  of  to-day. 

From  the  old  church  book  we  copy  the  following  record : 
"This  congregation  was  commenced  by  preaching  the  first  sermon 
on  Ascension  Day  (May  17,  1849),  by  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson, 
in  a  small  schoolhouse,  then  vacant,  standing  opposite  to  the 
newly  built  church.  But  this  little  house  was  soon  found  to  be 
too  small,  so  that  they  found  it  necessary  to  build  a  church, 
which,  at  the  same  time  in  August,  was  agreed  upon,  and  at  a 
meeting  held  August  21  for  the  purpose  to  give  away  the  building 
of  the  church  and  elect  a  building  committee,  which  resulted  in 
the  election  of  Adam  Swerner,  Benjamin  Backis  and  William 
Vought."  The  first  council,  elected  January  20,  1850,  was  as 
follows  :  Godfried  W^iltrout,  John  Burkholder,  elders  ;  Benjamin 
Backis,  Christian  Christner  and  Jacob  Swerner,  deacons.  These 
men  were  installed  February  17,  1850,  and  the  congregation 
organized  with  twenty-four  members.  August  4,  1849,  there 
was  "struck  off  from  the  plantation  owned  by  Benjamin  Backis, 
lying  along  the  public  road  from  Centerville  to  Meyers  Mills,  at 
the  request  of  said  Benjamin  Backis,  a  lot  of  i6oT/2  perches  for 
Center  church,  in  the  presence  of  Adam  Swerner,  John  Burg- 

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holder  and  William  Vought,  trustees  of  said  church,  to  be  called 
the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  of  Center  Church,  of  Elk 
Lick  Township."  The  original  survey  of  this  land  is  dated 
December  16,  1775,  and  conveyed  to  John  Burkholder,  February 
12,  1813.  The  deed  for  the  lot  given  the  church  was  delivered 
May  11,  1850,  by  Benjamin  Backis  and  wife,  Eliza,  on  the  pay- 
ment by  the  trustees  of  fifty  cents.  The  lot  was  on  the  "Center- 
ville  Road,"  and  believing  the  church  ought  to  be  the  "community 
center,"  it  was  named  appropriately  "Center"  church. 

The  first  communion  was  held  November  29,  1849,  at  which 
time  the  following  persons  partook  of  the   Sacrament,  most  of 


CENTER   EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN   CHURCH,  GARRETT,  R.  D.     REV.  W.  H.  B.  CARNEY 

whom,  no  doubt,  became  charter  members  of  the  organization 
which  was  completed  February  17,  1850.  The  original  spelling  is 
retained  :  Godfried  Wiltrout,  John  Borkholder,  Adam  Swerner, 
Benjamin  Backis,  William  Vough,  Jacob  Swerner,  Christian 
Christner,  John  Shaad,  Sr.,  Adam  Swerner,  Jr.,  Daniel  Swerner, 
John  Shaad,  Jr.,  Henry  Shaad,  William  Briske,  Baltzer  Walter, 
Matthias  Judy,  Conrad  Engel,  Henry  Smearman,  Sr.,  John 
Henry  Smearman,  Jr.,  Monroe  Leonhard,  Augustus  Heining, 
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CENTER,  SUMMIT  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  COUNTY 


Philip  Kraft.  Philip  Bedinger,  Margaret  Wiltrout,  Christian 
Swerner,  Lydia  Hochstetler,  Joana  Swerner,  Rosan  Loenhard, 
Useba  Loenhard,  Elizabeth  Bidinger,  Catharine  Swerner,  Eliza- 
beth Backis,  Hanna  Walter,  Mary  Judy,  Eliz.  Kretchman,  Mary 
Jonson,  Susanna  Christner,  Catharine  Shaad,  Mary  Shaad, 
Susanna  Vough,  Carolina  Wiltrout,  Catharine  Hutzel,  Madlene 
Bidinger,  Christina  Kraft,  Catharine  Smearman,  Susana  Brisky, 
Elizabeth  Engel,  Wilimeana  Heining. 

The  contract  for  the  building  was  given  to  Monroe  Lenhart 
for  $450.  It  was  a  one-story  frame,  45  by  35  feet,  and  stood 
immediately  in  front  of  the  present  structure.  It  was  dedicated 
in  the  spring  of  185 1.  Rev.  Lawson,  who  had  preached  here 
every  four  weeks,  resigned  April  1,  185 1. 

The  following  sketch  of  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson,  first  pastor 
at  Center  and  at  Scalp  Level,  will  be  of  interest : 

My  father,  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson,  was  born  near  New 
Freedom,  York  County,  Pa.,  in  1808.  In  his  youth  he  learned 
the  carpenter  and  cabinet  trade  and  followed  it  for  years  until 
after  his  fourth  child  was  born,  by  which  he  earned  and  laid  by 
some  twelve  hundred  dollars  which  he  spent  in  his  studies  for 
the  ministry,  besides  maintaining  his  family.  He  was  married 
at  the  age  of  twenty-one  to  Miss  Catharine  Smith,  by  whom  he 
had  ten  children,  all  of  whom  survived  him  many  years  and  five 
still  remain.  He  took  a  partial  course  of  studies  at  Pennsyl- 
vania College  and  spent  two  years  at  the  Seminary  under 
Dr.  S.  S.  Schmucker.  He  received  ad  interim  license  from  the 
president  of  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod,  April,  1844,  and  was 
regularly  licensed  by  the  same  Synod  on  October  2,  1844,  and 
ordained  at  the  Friedens  Church,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  Novem- 
ber 1,  1845.  His  first  charge  was  Friedens,  Somerset  County, 
Pa.,  which  consisted  of  five  churches  and  three  preaching  sta- 
tions: all  of  which  gave  him  a  salary  of  $400.  He  served  that 
charge  for  about  six  years.  Then  he  took  the  Salisbury  charge, 
Salisbury,  Pa.,  and  served  it  perhaps  for  three  years.  Then  he 
retired  from  the  ministry  for  a  few  years  and  returned  to  the 
bounds  of  the  Friedens  charge. 

From  there  he  moved  to  Fryburg,  Clarion  County,  Pa.,  and 
served  that  charge  some  years  (how  many  I  cannot  tell).  From 
Fryburg  he  came  back  and  took  charge  of  West  Newton,  Pa., 

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where  he  remained  for  about  six  years  and  died  (I  think )  Feb- 
ruary, iX(>j,  and  lies  buried  in  the  cemetery  of  that  town. 

The  churches  and  preaching  places  constituting  the  various 
charges  which  my  father  served  I  cannot  now  recall.  Many 
of  them,  I  know,  have  since  been  divided  and  now  constitute 
separate  charges.  This  is  no  doubt  the  case  of  Scalp  Level,  Pa., 
if  my  father  was  ever  pastor  there.  This  is  about  all  the  infor- 
mation I  can  give  you  of  my  father.  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson.  I 
still  have  his  books  in  which  he  recorded  all  his  accessions,  bap- 
tisms and  marriages  during  his  whole  ministerial  career,  in  all  the 
charges  he  served.  I  am  sorry  my  information  is  not  more 
definite,  but  it  is  the  best  I  can  do. — Written  by  J.  S.  Lawson,  a 
son,  in  191 1,  then  seventy-nine  years  old. 

The  following  Salisbury  pastors  served  it  later : 

Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  July  1,  1852,  to  April  1,  1865;  Rev.  John 
Forthman,  May  1,  1865,  to  January  1,  1868;  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler, 
April  1,  1868,  to  April  1,  1875;  Rev.  J.  A.  Koser,  August  1,  1875, 
to  1878;  Rev.  J.  M.  Snyder,  August  4,  1878,  to  November,  1879; 
Rev.  Reuben  Smith,  February  15,  1880,  to  February  12,  1885; 
Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  November  26,  1885,  to  August  24,  1889. 

At  this  date,  St.  Paul  and  Garrett  became  separate  from 
Meyersdale,  and  Center  from  Salisbury,  and  the  next  pastor 
called  served  this  new  charge. 

Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  September,  1889,  to  February,  1901. 

In  1890,  the  frame  church  was  sold  by  auction  to  John  Hoover 
for  $100.  On  September  16,  of  the  same  year,  the  corner-stone 
of  the  present  building  was  laid,  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn,  president  of 
Synod,  preaching  the  sermon.  The  new  church  is  52  by  28  feet, 
brick  cased.  In  its  55-foot  tower  there  hangs  a  548-pound 
McShane  bell.  It  is  covered  with  Cartwright  metal  rooting. 
The  rear  of  the  interior  is  partitioned  by  folding  doors,  making 
a  room  22  by  9  feet.  In  this  room  is  a  triple  memorial  window : 
To  Hannah  Haer  by  George  Haer;  Mary  E.  Judy  by  Samuel 
Judy,  and  by  Revs.  J.  M.  Snyder  and  M.  L.  Young.  The  build- 
ing committee  was  Samuel  Judy,  Christian  Haer  and  Willis 
Duecker.  The  pulpit  furniture  was  given  by  friends  of  Pastor 
Young,  of  Meyersdale. 

A  circular  window  above  the  pulpit  contains  the  above  list  of 
pastors.  Tt  was  dedicated  January  29,  1891,  Rev.  C.  B.  Gruver 
638 


CENTER,  SUMMIT  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  COUNTY 

preaching  the  sermon ;  the  cost,  about  $2,000,  being  provided  for. 
It  was  since  served  by  Revs.  Brown  and  Burk.  In  1894  and  in 
191 2,  the  exterior  woodwork  was  painted. 

During  the  present  pastorate  it  was  papered,  repaired,  a  new 
organ  bought  and  a  new  fence  put  around  the  grounds  in  1912. 
Extensive  changes  are  being  planned  at  present  (1917). 

The  Sunday  school  apparently  dates  from  May,  1854.  A 
constitution  of  this  date  provides  for  the  office  of  conductor, 
whose  duties  are  "to  maintain  proper  order  in  the  school,  to 
prevent  persons  from  scarring  and  disfiguring  the  pews  or  any 
other  part  of  the  house."  The  earliest  list  of  officers  is  of  the 
year  1858,  and  consisted  of  William  Wought  and  Christ  Christ- 


GEORGE    HAER 


ner,  superintendents ;  Daniel  D.  Johnson,  secretary ;  Joseph 
Ringer,  librarian ;  Rheuben  Krechman  and  Augustis  Heining, 
conductors.  These  workers  were  succeeded  by  others  in  later 
years,  among  them  being  George  Haer,  Sr.,  H.  Emery,  John 
Briskey,  W.  M.  Enfield,  Charles  Ebbakae,  Christian  Haer,  Willis 
Duecker,  Reuben  Johnson,  Cornelius  Burkholder.  In  the  year 
1858,  the  constitution  was  enlarged  by  the  addition  of  the  fol- 
lowing "by-law  for  April,  1858,  until  September  30,  1858": 

"1.  It  is  required  that  the  conductor  shall  and  will  keep  the 
house  in  good  order,  so  that  there  shall  be  no  misconduct  in  or 
outside  of  the  church.  2.  And  that  he  have  the  privilege  to 
enforce  the  punishment  of  the  transgressor  at  any  or  all 
times.     3.  No  laughing,  no  joking,  no  jumping,  no  swearing,  no 

639 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


intoxicating  drink  shall  be  allowed  in  the  church  house  or  out- 
side the  house  from  this  on  and  hereafter."  If  conditions  were 
as  bad  as  this  would  indicate  there  was  need  of  a  Sunday  school 
surely. 

Note  is  made  of  a  spelling  class,  in  this  early  period,  taught  by 
John  Hochstetler.  As  the  people  were  largely  German,  or  spoke 
Somerset  County  "Dutch,"  he  likely  had  plenty  of  work  for  his 
class.      Under   Rev.   M.    L.   Young  the   preaching   services   first 


DANIEL   JOHNSON,   DIED    MARCH    28,    1896,   AGED   83   YEARS,  2   MONTHS,   8   DAYS. 

DELEGATE  TO   SYNOD  OF    1869 

MRS.    MARY   JOHNSON,  DIED  JULY  2,   1893,   AGED  84  YEARS,    I    MONTH,  24  DAYS. 

A     CHARTER     MEMBKR 


became  entirely  English.  The  earliest  separate  congregational 
report  to  Synod  (1862)  gives  rive  teachers  and  twenty-five  schol- 
ars to  this  school.  It  was  a  summer  Sunday  school  until  191 1, 
reorganizing  any  time  from  May  to  July,  and  closing  in  Sep- 
tember. Under  the  superintendency  of  M.  C.  Haer  it  first  became 
"evergreen."  The  Sunday  school  and  church  now  conducted 
640 


SAMUEL'S 


by  the  grandchildren  of  the  founders,  have  had  an  encouraging 
development  in  every  way,  and  better  days  are  in  store  for  this 
good-hearted  people. 

THE  GLADE  PASTORATE 

ROCKWOOD,   R.   D. 

Sketches  by  Rev.  P.  B.  Fasold 

Samuel's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
In  the  first  church  record  of  this  congregation,  twenty-four 
infant  baptisms  are  recorded  for  the  year  1785,  the  first  ten  on 
April  26,  1785.  The  minister's  name  is  not  given.  One  of  the 
first  children  baptized  was  named  Samuel ;  from  this  child  the 
church  got  its  name. 

It  is  surmised  by  Rev.  J.  R.  Focht  that  Rev.  Litzel  preached 
here  in  the  "Barron's"  settlement.  However,  it  is  possible  that 
the  Rev.  Steck  visited  the  scattered  Lutherans  in  this  county 
while  yet  pastor  at  Chambersburg.  This  record  follows : 
"Church  council  installed  September  21,  1788."  This  is  in  the 
handwriting  of  Rev.  Steck,  as  also  ten  pages  of  infant  baptisms, 
dated  1787  and  1788,  part  of  them  in  this  pioneer's  bold  hand- 
writing. A  list  of  those  communing  October  2,  1790,  twenty- 
seven  in  number,  is  also  given  by  him.  It  is  also  of  interest  to 
read  in  this  record  that  on  April  17,  1791,  a  colored  woman, 
"Rachel"  by  name,  "a  slave  of  Peter  Ankeny,  after  a  public 
confession  of  her  faith  and  promise  to  conform  as  far  as  possible 
her  life  to  the  commandments  of  God,  was  received  by  holy 
baptism  into  the  covenant  of  God's  grace  and  church.  In  order 
that  she  might  have  shelter  and  support,  the  elder,  Peter  Ankeny, 
and  deacon,  Henry  Stahl,  became  her  sponsors." 

The  second  church  record  begins  thus :  "Church  book  for  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  of  Samuel's  Church,  in  the 
County  and  Township  of  Somerset,  State  of  Pennsylvania,  con- 
taining the  Church  discipline,  baptismal  record,  record  of  com- 
municants, record  of  confirmation,  and  the  annual  settlement  of 
the  collections.  Arranged  at  the  time  when  Rev.  Fr.  William 
Lange  was  pastor,  and  Ludwig  Funk,  elder,  John  Adam  Neii, 
deacon,  had  been  elected  by  the  congregation,  in  the  year  of 
Christ  1797,  the  eighteenth  day  of  November." 

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The  constitution  is  undersigned  by  thirty-five  members,  seven- 
teen of  whom  made  their  mark,  July  5,  1801.  They  worshiped 
in  a  log  schoolhouse  near  where  the  church  now  stands.  In  this 
schoolhouse,  with  its  crevices  closed  with  clay,  and  a  large  chim- 
ney at  one  end,  lived  the  schoolmaster  and  his  family.  To  it 
came  the  early  settlers,  carrying  with  them  their  muskets  and 
powder  horns  needed  ofttimes  to  protect  themselves  from  the 
wolves  in  going  to  and  from  church. 

Rev.  Lange,  on  Whitsuntide,  1798,  confirmed  thirteen  young 
men  and  fifteen  young  women.  In  1800,  seventy  persons  are 
recorded  as  communing;  in  1805,  ninety,  with  twenty-nine  con- 
firmations; Whitsuntide,  1807,  twenty-one  confirmations  and 
eighty-three  communing.  This  may  indicate  that  communions 
were  held  here  every  two  to  five  years.  His  last  record  is  dated 
July  1,  1810. 

For  a  short  while  in  181 1  and  1812,  Rev.  Lampbrecht  preached 
here.  Then  followed  Revs.  E.  H.  Tiedeman,  1812  to  1819;  John 
Rebenack,  November,  1819,  to  November,  1820;  Peter 
Schmucker,  1821,  to  April  1,  1824;  C.  F.  Heyer,  November, 
1824,  to  July  1,  1828;  Daniel  Heilig,  March  1,  1829,  to  March  1, 
1831;  C.  F.  Heyer,  January  1,  1832,  to  January  1,  1836;  H. 
Haverstick,  July  15,  1836,  to  July  15,  1838;  Peter  Rizer,  Novem- 
ber 1,  1839,  to  May  1,  1847.  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer  introduced  the 
English  language  for  the  first  in  1834. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Rizer,  a  revival  was  held  of 
which  he  gives  an  account  in  the  Lutheran  Observer  of  August 
22  and  29,  1845.  He  states  that  if  the  Kirchen  Ordnung  (church 
discipline,  of  the  Pennsylvania  Ministerium,  adopted  in  1801) 
had  been  observed  there  would  have  been  no  need  for  a  refor- 
mation. But  spiritual  death  was  brooding  over  the  church.  So  a 
revival  was  started  June  21,  1845.  No  mourners'  bench  was 
used ;  the  penitents  asked  only  to  kneel  in  their  pews.  But  two 
of  the  aged  members,  one  an  elder,  objected,  and  after  four 
meetings  the  church  was  locked  by  George  Flick  and  others  of 
the  church  officers,  and  the  key  refused  the  pastor.  After  a 
meeting  under  the  trees,  however,  August  6,  the  key  was  handed 
over.  The  church  was  a  "union"  owned  by  the  Lutheran  and 
the  Reformed. 

In  1846  and  1847,  occurred  the  erection  of  a  Lutheran  church 
642 


SAMUEL'S 

in  Lavansville,  nearby,  under  the  leadership  of  David  Woy  and 
others  favorable  to  the  revivalistic  methods  of  the  period,  to 
which  most  of  the  Lutherans  of  the  community  now  joined. 

In  1854  and  1855,  a  new  union  church  was  built  at  Samuel's. 
The  movement  was  headed  by  Henry  Corpennig  (Corbenig), 
though  no  Lutheran  services  were  held  in  it  from  the  dedication 
of  the  Lavansville  Church  till  1872.  At  this  time,  fearing  that 
the  pastor  of  Somerset,  Lavansville  and  Bakersville,  Rev.  John 
Hentz,  would  influence  the  latter  two  congregations  to  withdraw 
to  join  the  General  Council,  Rev.  Winecoff,  pastor  at  Berlin, 
organized  a  new  Lutheran  congregation  at  Samuel's,  with  forty- 
two  charter  members,  and  became  pastor  of  these  three  churches 
(Somerset  becoming  independent),  June  23,  1873.  He  was 
stricken  with  apoplexy  July  6,  1873,  and  died  the  same  day,  at 
the  age  of  fifty-eight  years.  He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  David 
Earhart,  who  was  pastor  from  July  13,  1873,  to  July  13,  1876. 
Then  followed  Rev.  L.  L.  Sieber  as  pastor  from  September  1, 
1876,  to  1878. 

Trouble  having  now  arisen  among  the  three  churches  because 
the  other  two  asked  Samuel's  to  pay  one-third  of  the  salary, 
which  they  declined  to  do,  Conference  was  asked  by  Synod  to 
care  for  these  people.  Rev.  Unruh,  pastor  of  the  Glade  charge, 
began  to  supply  them  in  1879,  and  on  the  recommendation  of 
Synod,  Samuel's  congregation  became  a  part  of  the  Glade  pas- 
torate. This  charge  thus  constituted  has  been  served  since  then 
by  the  following  pastors  : 

Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn,  May  1,  1882,  to  April  22,  1891  ;  Rev.  A.  B. 
Miller,  June,  1891,  to  December  1,  1906;  Rev.  D.  S.  Weimer, 
December,  1906,  to  December  3,  1909 ;  Rev.  J.  E.  Lowe,  Jr.,  May 
21,  1910.  to  December  31,  1913;  Rev.  P.  B.  Fasold,  March  25, 
1914,  to  April,  1917. 

During  the  summer  of  1915,  in  the  second  year  of  Rev. 
Fasold's  pastorate,  the  present  splendid  new  church  was  built. 
The  building  committee  consisted  of  the  following  brethren : 
Elias  Zerfoss,  chairman,  John  Marteeny  and  John  Ankeny. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid,  in  the  presence  of  a  very  large  con- 
gregation, on  the  afternoon  of  Sunday,  May  9.  The  pastor  was 
assisted  by  the  Rev.  H.  M.  Petrea,  of  the  Lavansville  charge. 
Rev.  Petrea  made  the  address  and  the  pastor  laid  the  stone.    The 

643 


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edifice  is  a  brick-cased  building,  40  by  50  feet.  It  is  very  well 
constructed  and  is  a  thing  of  beauty,  both  inside  and  outside. 
It  is  a  credit  to  the  pastor  and  congregation,  as  well  as  to  the 
community  at  large.  There  was  no  friction  between  the  com- 
mittee and  the  congregation,  everything  going  splendidly  to  its 
completion.  The  building  was  dedicated  October  27,  1915.  Rev. 
A.  B.  Miller  preached  the  sermon.  Revs.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D., 
H.  M.  Petrea,  S.  A.  Shaulis  and  E.  R.  Hauser  were  present  and 
assisted. 

The  cost  was  about  $8,000.  About  $800  more  was  raised  than 
was  necessary  to  liquidate  the  unprovided-for  debt.  After  this 
very  generous  giving  on  the  part  of  the  immense  congregation 
that  had  assembled,  the  pastor  performed  the  solemn  act  of 
dedication  just  at  about  the  noon  hour.  Rev.  Young  preached  in 
the  evening  to  a  reassembled  large  congregation. 

Messiah  Lutheran  Church,  at  New  Centerville 

According  to  the  minutes  of  Synod,  as  far  back  as  1813 
this  congregation  was  formerly  called  Gephardt's.  Then  after 
the  dedication  of  its  first  church  building,  in  1819,  they  named 
it  Gideon's,  which  name  it  retained  until  1874,  when  it  was  again 
renamed  and  called  "Messiah." 

The  earliest  baptisms  recorded  in  this  church  record  are  three 
children  of  John  Gephardt,  who  moved  here  some  time  after 
1793.  The  baptismal  dates  are  1782,  1786,  1788,  and  the  pastor, 
Rev.  J.  G.  Young. 

[He  was  pastor  at  Hagerstown,  where  these  baptisms  were 
administered  before  the  parents  moved  from  there,  and  the 
names  were  simply  copied  later  into  the  church  record  here.  This 
fact  may  explain  the  early  baptisms  recorded  in  some  other 
church  records  which  precede  in  date  the  presence  of  any  local 
pastor. — Ed.] 

May  21,  1796,  John  Gephardt  deeded  a  parcel  of  ground  for 
five  shillings,  a*nd  Mr.  Philipi  some  additional  land  to  David  Jones 
and  Christian  Bender  for  school  and  church  purposes.  On  this 
ground  was  built  a  large  schoolhouse  and  a  house  for  the  school 
teacher. 

In  this  schoolhouse,  Rev.  Lange  began  services,  and  in  1796 
644 


MESSIAH,  NEW  CENTERVILLE 


organized  the  Lutheran  congregation.  Later  a  written  agree- 
ment, signed  by  Rev.  Lange  and  the  Lutheran  council,  and  Rev. 
Henry  Geise,  German  Reformed  pastor,  and  his  consistory,  was 
made  to  erect  a  union  church  building.  The  corner-stone  was 
laid  May  19,  181 1.  It  was  built  of  logs,  and  its  construction 
was  superintended  by  John  Carbaugh.  The  work  on  the  build- 
ing went  slowly.  On  March  6,  181 5,  Rev.  Tiedeman,  pastor 
from  181 3  to  1818,  held  a  meeting  of  both  councils.  After  sing- 
ing "Komm,  O  Komm,  Du  Geist  des  Lebens,"  and  a  heart-stirring 
prayer,  things  were  beginning  to  move,  with  a  sum  of  $69.25  in 
the  treasury.  The  building,  however,  was  not  completed  until 
the  autumn  of  1819. 

When  the  second  Somerset  County  charge  was  formed,  in  181 8, 
this  congregation  was  put  with  Sanner's,  Schafer's,  Wills  Creek, 
Salisbury,  Addison,  Pine  Hill  and  Berlin,  and  was  thus  served  by 
Rev.  Criegler. 

Then  followed  Rev.  George  Leiter,  from  May,  1834,  to  May, 
1836,  and  Rev.  Charles  Reese  from  May  1,  1836,^0  May  1,  1840. 
At  his  first  communion  held  here  May  22,  1836,  sixty-three  com- 
muned. In  1839,  he  was  serving  nine  congregations,  but  after  his 
resignation  in  1840  the  charge  was  divided.  Rev.  Reese  moved  to 
Masonville,  but  May  1,  1841,  preached  again  in  this  field  and 
reported  six  congregations.  He  resigned  again  August  1,  1842. 
For  a  year  (1844  to  1845)  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  from  Berlin, 
served  some  of  the  congregations  of  this  charge.  In  1845, 
April  1,  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler  began  his  ministry  in  this  charge. 
He  lived  in  Addison  and  preached  here  for  three  years.  During 
1849,  Rev-  William  Uhl,  of  Somerset,  at  the  request  of  Synod 
and  Conference,  cared  for  Centerville,  Sanners,  etc.,  holding 
communion  here  December  25.  1850.  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson, 
of  Salisbury,  also  assisted  Rev.  Uhl  in  caring  for  these  churches 

January  1,  185 1,  to  April  1,  1854,  Rev.  Solomon  McHenn 
served  Centerville,  Emmanuel  (Laurel),  Sanner's,  Barron's. 
Pines,  which  he  organized,  and  at  Kooser  Schoolhouse,  west  of 
Laurel  Ridge.  He  reported  to  Synod  two  Sunday  schools.  In 
185 1  or  1852,  a  parsonage  was  built  at  a  cost  of  $600.  Rev. 
McHenry  was  followed  by  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker  from  November  1, 
1854,  to  May  1,  1857.  Then  came  Rev.  John  Tomlinson's  pas- 
torate from  May  1,  T857,  to  September  15,  1861.     He  reported 

645 


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four  Sunday  schools  (union)  ;  confirmed,  thirty-seven;  preached 
to  seven  congregations,  and  raised  for  benevolence,  $498.26. 

Rev.  Charles  Young  served  the  charge  from  April  11,  1862,  to 
December  11,  1864.  Then  followed  Rev.  Josiah  Zimmerman 
from  January  15,  1865,  to  June  1,  1869,  after  whom  came  Reuben 
Smith,  who  served  from  July  20,  1870,  to  January  1,  1875.  Dur- 
ing his  pastorate,  on  June  8,  1873,  the  corner-stone  of  the  present 
church  was  laid;  Conference  being  present  on  the  occasion 
assisted  in  collecting  $1,300.  On  July  3,  a  storm  blew  down 
the  uncompleted  side  walls,  but  the  church  was  dedicated  the 
first  Sunday  in  February,  1874.  Rev.  John  Tomlinson  preached 
the  sermon,  and  Revs.  Whetstone  and  Earhard  assisted.  The 
edifice  is  built  of  brick,  70  by  40  feet,  of  a  good  style  of  archi- 
tecture. It  cost  $10,000,  and  was  for  years  one  of  the  finest 
churches  in  the  county.  The  building  committee  consisted  of  the 
following  brethren :  John  Boucher,  John  Snyder,  Jeremiah 
Weimer  and  Peter  Dull. 

Rev.  John  Unruh  was  pastor  from  January  1,  1876,  to  October 
18,  1 88 1.  During  his  pastorate  the  church  enjoyed  great  spiritual 
prosperity.  The  membership  increased  one-third.  A  new  par- 
sonage was  bought  for  $1,500.  After  Rev.  Unruh,  Rev.  John  H. 
Zinn  came  on  the  field  May  1,  1882.  He  remained  until  April  22, 
1 89 1.  While  he  was  pastor  the  church  was  remodeled,  a  debt 
canceled  and  the  benevolent  offerings  increased.  The  envelope 
system  was  introduced  by  him. 

Rev.  A.  B.  Miller  began  his  pastorate  June,  1891,  and  closed 
December  1,  1906.  During  his  long  pastoral  service  memorial 
windows  were  put  in  the  church,  the  woodwork  repainted  and  a 
bell  placed  in  the  cupola,  the  gift  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Zachariah 
Walker.  A  young  people's  society  was  organized  in  1894,  which 
society  obligated  itself  to  educate  a  native  boy  in  our  mission  in 
Africa. 

Rev.  D.  S.  Weimer  succeeded  Rev.  Miller,  beginning  Decem- 
ber 1,  1906,  and  ending  December  3,  1909.  During  his  pastorate 
new  carpet  was  laid  in  the  auditorium,  the  frescoing  retraced 
and  a  heating  plant  installed. 

Rev.  J.  E.  Lowe,  Jr.,  while  yet  a  student  in  the  seminary  at 
Gettysburg,  was  secured  as  a  supply  during  the  summer  of  19 10. 
He  was  later  elected  as  regular  pastor  and  served  until  the  close 
of    1913. 
646 


ST.  PAUL'S,  OR  BARRON'S 


Rev.  P.  B.  Fasold  accepted  a  call  to  this  field  and  began  his 
pastorate  March  26,  1914.  As  it  is  ill  becoming  a  man  to  com- 
mend his  own  work,  we  will  let  future  historians  do  for  us  what 
we  have  done  for  our  predecessors. 

This  congregation  furnished  two  sons  for  the  Lutheran 
ministry,  namely,  William  Tedrow  and  Luther  T.  Snyder. 

St.  Paul's,  or  "Barron's"  Lutheran  Church 
The  first  services  held  here  were  inaugurated  by  Rev.  Reese,  in 
Putman's  Schoolhouse.  After  a  protracted  service,  conducted  by 
Rev.  William  Uhl,  of  Somerset,  in  1849,  preparations  were  made 
to  build  a  church.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  in  May,  1850,  and 
the  church  was  dedicated  September  11,  1850.  This  first  church 
was  a  one-story  frame  building,  45  by  36  feet,  with  cupola  con- 
taining a  bell.  The  church  cost  $1,000.  The  ground  was  donated 
by  George  Barron.  The  present  building  was  constructed  at  the 
close  of  Rev.  Zinn's  pastorate,  but  was  dedicated  November  27, 
1892,  after  Rev.  A.  B.  Miller  came  on  the  field.  The  church  is  a 
frame  building,  50  by  30  feet,  with  a  pagoda  steeple  in  which 
has  been  placed  a  bell.  The  annex  is  also  frame,  30  by  30  feet. 
The  cost  of  construction  was  $3,400.  The  building  committee 
consisted  of  Levi  Long,  W'estley  Pyle  and  Jesse  M.  Whipkey. 

The  congregation  was  organized  December  7,  1850,  with 
twenty-four  charter  members,  six  being  received  at  the  first  com- 
munion following.  In  the  church  record  we  find  the  following: 
"We  receive  the  word  of  God  as  contained  in  the  Old  and  New 
Testaments  as  the  only  infallible  rule  of  faith  and  practice.  We 
receive  Luther's  Smaller  Catechism  as  a  book  for  instructing  the 
children  of  the  Church,  and  those  who  make  application  for 
Church  membership,  when  deemed  necessary.  We  receive  the 
formula  and  discipline  of  the  General  Synod  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church  attached  to  the  Lutheran  hymn  book  for  the 
government  of  this  congregation." 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  McHenry  this  church  became  a 
part  of  the  Glade  charge. 

Ziox  Lutheran  Church,  Kingwood,  Pa. 
In  1846,  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler  began  preaching  in  a  schoolhouse 
about  a  mile  northwest  of  the  present  church,  continuing  thus 

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SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


until  June  i,  1849.  Rev.  McHenry,  of  Centerville,  served  as 
pastor  of  these  people,  who,  in  1852,  erected  their  church  on  a 
lot  deeded  by  Samuel  King.  The  church  was  dedicated  Decem- 
ber 31,  1852.  It  is  a  frame  building,  40  by  36  feet,  and  cost  $800. 
The  congregation  was  organized  January  22,  1853,  with  twenty- 
seven  charter  members.  They  adopted  the  constitution  and  dis- 
cipline of  the  General  Synod,  and  received  communion  January 
23,  1853.  This  congregation,  since  its  organization,  has  been  a 
part  of  the  Glade  charge.  A  new  deed  for  the  land  was  secured 
in  1859.  The  old  one  was  found  to  be  defective.  For  five  or 
six  years  this  church  was  the  only  building  in  the  village  of 
Kingwood.  Its  early  members  embraced  families  by  the  names 
of  Gauk,  Kreager,  Kuhlman,  Hoffelt,  Forespring,  Leer,  Lucas, 
Gephart,  Snyder,  King,  etc. 


HOOVERSVILLE  CHARGE, 
Rev.  IV.  E.  Sunday,  Pastor. 

HOOVERSVILLE   CHURCH 

In  1849  the  community,  desiring  a  new  place  of  worship,  be- 
gan to  agitate  the  subject  of  building  a  church,  at  the  head  of 
which  was  Rev.  Gugenheim,  who  preached  here,  and  Rev.  Ernst, 
of  Somerset;  both  were  German  Reformed  pastors. 

The  former  desired  a  Reformed  Church,  the  latter  a  union 
church — Reformed  and  Lutheran.  The  latter  sentiment  pre- 
vailed, and  it  so  happened  that  when  the  building  committee  was 
appointed  they  were  all  Lutherans,  as  follows:— John  Weigle, 
Emanuel  Wolfgood,  Emanuel  Lohr. 

The  building  erected  was  26x32,  frame,  costing  $1,000.  The 
burden  of  the  cost  was  borne  by  the  Lutheran  element.  The  lot 
was  donated  by  John  Weigle,  and  the  church  named  Weigle's  in 
his  honor. 

It  was  dedicated  1850,  by  Revs.  P.  Sahm  and  W.  A.  Kopp. 
Lutheran  ministers  from  Johnstown.  During  that  summer  Rev. 
Kopp  organized  the  congregation  and  became  its  first  pastor. 
He  served  till  1852. 

From  his  resignation  till  May  1,  1853,  Jacob  K.  Bricker,  a 
theological  student  under  Rev.  Sahm,  served  under  the  direction 
648 


H00VERSV1LLE 


of  Rev.  Kopp.  Having  been  licensed  that  year,  he  served  as 
pastor  to  October  i,  1854. 

Rev.  Joseph  J.  Bechtel,  January  1,  1855  to  January  1,  1857. 
Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker,  May  1,  1857  to  May  1,  1859.  Rev.  John 
Beaver,  November  11,  i860  to  March  23,  1863.  Rev.  J.  K. 
Bricker,  January  1,  1864  to  January  1,  1866.  Rev.  Jacob  B. 
Crist,  February  24,  1867  to  December  22,  1869.  Rev.  Adam  R. 
Height,  January  9,  1870  to  April  1,  1871. 

Hooversville  Charge  now  formed  with  pastor,  Rev.  J.  K. 
Bricker,  August  1,  1871  to  August  1,  1874.     He  reported  4  con- 


LUTHERAN    CHURCH    AND    PARSONAGE,    HOOVERSVILLE,    PA. 

gregations,  187  communicants,  4  prayer  meetings,  3  Lutheran 
and  1  Union  Sunday  school. 

Rev.  Reuben  Smith,  January  1,  1875  to  February  1,  1876. 
Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick,  July  1.  1876  to  December  1,  1877.  Rev. 
John  L.  Miller,  May  3.  1878  to  September  4,  1878.  His  license 
was  not  renewed  by  Synod. 

Rev.  J.  B.  Shoup,  January  1.  1879  to  July  10,  1881.  Rev. 
John  N.  Unruh,  October  18,  1881  to  November,  1886.  Rev.  J. 
H.  Houseman,  April  20,  1887  to  1892.  Rev.  A.  H.  Shertz,  No- 
vember 1,  1892  to  1893.  Rev.  D.  B.  Lau,  November  1,  1893  t0 
1895.    Rev.  Samuel  Krider,  October  27,  1895  to  1897.     Rev.  C. 

649 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


M.  Wachter,  November  8,  1899  to  1901.  Rev.  G.  F.  Sheese, 
May  1,  1902,  student  from  Seminary,  supplied  during  summer; 
Rev.  A.  R.  Shertz,  November  1,  1902  to  1904.  Rev.  C.  F. 
Floto,  November  1,  1905  to  September  1906.  Rev.  G.  K.  Allen, 
November  31,  1907  to  March  24,  19 12.  Rev.  P.  J.  Schriver, 
March  25,  1912  to  March  25,  1914.     Rev.     W.  E.  Sunday,  April 

15-  1915  — 

The  only  young  man  entering  the  ministry  from  this  field  is 
Professor  V.  D.  Naugle,  of  the  Hooversville  congregation,  who 
is  at  present  at  school  preparing. 

Later  History  of  Hooversville. 

In  the  year  1881  the  Hooversville  congregation  began  to  con- 
sider the  proposition  of  building  a  new  Lutheran  church  of  their 
own  (prior  it  was  Reformed  and  Lutheran). 

The  corner-stone  dates  1882,  but  the  account  of  the  dedication 
services  dates  November  30,  1884.  Rev.  Shearer,  of  Somerset, 
preached  the  sermon.  Revs.  Felton  and  Brodfuhrer  were  also 
present.  The  amount  to  be  raised  was  $1,600;  of  this  amount 
$1,300  was  raised  in  the  morning  and  the  remaining  portion 
raised  at  the  evening  session,  when  the  church  was  dedicated 
by  the  pastor,  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh,  free  of  debt. 

The  corner-stone  for  the  present  building  was  laid  during  1901 
by  Rev.  Wachter,  pastor.  The  building  was  dedicated  January 
26,  1902.  It  is  a  frame,  35  x  68,  and  cost  $2,700.  Revs.  W.  A. 
Shipman,  D.D.,  R.  S.  Patterson,  J.  H.  Houseman,  L.  N.  Fleck 
and  M.  S.  Romig  were  present  during  the  services. 

On  April  18,  191 5,  W.  E.  Sunday  entered  upon  his  duties  as 
pastor  of  Hooversville  Charge.  It  then  consisted  of  Hoovers-* 
ville,  Graef's,  Shade,  Lambertsville. 

During  the  summer  of  191 5,  Cairnbrook  building  up  so  rapidly, 
and  Graef's  Church  being  located  so  near  this  new  town,  a  move- 
ment on  the  part  of  that  congregation  was  started  for  a  division 
of  the  charge. 

A  special  meeting  of  the  Joint  Council  was  called.  Dr.  Young, 
our  Missionary  Superintendent,  presided ;  a  decision  was  reached 
to  divide  the  charge. 

Hooversville    and    Lambertville    to    form    the    Hooversville 
Charge. 
650 


HOOVERSVILLE 


Graef's  and  Shade  to  form  the  new  charge  which  has  taken 
the  name  Cairnbrook  Charge. 

Necessary  papers  were  arranged  and  presented  before  Synod 
that  fall,  meeting  at  Huntingdon.  The  division  was  sanctioned, 
with  the  clause  that  the  pastor  of  the  Hooversville  Charge  supply 
the  newly-formed  charge  till  they  called  a  pastor. 

Rev.  J.  A.  Richter  was  called  May  I,  1916,  to  the  Cairnbrook 
Charge,  and  fulfilled  the  condition  and  completed  the  separation. 

St.  John's,  Lambertville 
The  Lutherans  in  this  community  were  members  of  Shade, 


.-.  4M  a  % 

jtTm 

SSh&HhHH 

LUTHERAN  CHURCH  AT  LAMBERTSVILLE,  PA.,  HOOVERSVILLE  CHARGE 

Shanksville  and  Stoyestown,  when  in  1857  they  organized  under 
the  leadership  of  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker. 

This  congregation  and  the  Reformed  built  the  first  church  in 
Lambertsville  in  1861,  Rev.  John  Beaver  their  pastor. 

The  first  church  council :    Elders — Abraham   Lambert,  John 
Sipe.    Deacons — Adam  Grimm,  Joseph  Sipe. 

The  edifice  was  45x40,  costing  $1,200.     The  day  of  dedica- 
tion was  December  13,  186 1. 

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From  this  date  on  it  has  been  served  by  the  same  pastors  as 
Hooversville. 

In  1890  a  new  Lutheran  church  was  built  in  Lambertsville.  It 
is  a  frame  structure,  Gothic  in  design,  38  x  65  feet,  and  contains 
two  rooms,  separated  by  a  sliding  partition,  so  arranged  as 
to  be  thrown  into  one  in  case  of  a  crowded  house. 

The  church  is  well  adapted  to  the  needs  of  the  congregation, 
and  reflects  great  credit  to  the  pastor  and  people  who  labored 
so  earnestly  for  the  accomplishment  of  this  noble  work,  the 
pastor  being  Rev.  J.  H.  Houseman. 

The  entire  cost  of  the  church  was  $3,100.  Of  this  amount, 
$1,200  remained  to  be  raised  on  the  day  of  dedication.  Rev.  C. 
B.  Graver,  of  Berlin,  Pa.,  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon,  and 
solicited  the  subscriptions.  The  people  so  nobly  responded  to  the 
call  that  in  a  short  time  $1,250  was  subscribed,  and  the  church 
was  solemnly  set  apart  to  divine  worship  free  of  debt. 

The  following  pastors  were  also  present  and  participated  in 
the  services :  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn,  of  Glade,  Pa. ;  Rev.  E.  S.  John- 
ston, of  Stoyestown,  Pa. ;  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch,  of  Friedens,  Pa. 
Rev.  Zinn  preached  on  Saturday  evening,  and  Rev.  Johnston  on 
Sunday  evening. 


THE  JENNERSTOWN  CHARGE 

Rev.  Elmer  F.  Rice,  Pastor 

St.  James'  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

St.  James'  is  the  oldest  congregation  of  this  pastorate,  the  first 
one  to  be  organized  on  the  west  side  of  Stony  Creek  between 
Stoyestown  and  Johnstown.  The  Emmanuel  Cover  Schoolhouse, 
in  which  services  were  first  held,  was  located  in  a  settlement 
almost  entirely  of  Quaker  persuasion.  There  were  only  six 
families  of  the  Lutheran  faith  in  the  community :  Michael  Stufft 
and  wife,  Joseph  Boyer  and  wife,  Emmanuel  Cover  and  wife, 
George  Swank  and  wife,  John  Deibert  and  wife  and  Jacob 
Shaffer  and  wife.  Here  is  the  nucleus  of  Lutheranism  which 
has  grown  until  it  has  become  the  strongest  faith  of  this  section. 
In  1836,  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  who  traveled  as  a  missionary  from 
Somerset  to  Cambria  and  Clearfield  Counties,  stopped  sometimes 
652 


ST.  JAMES' 


on  his  way  and  preached  for  these  people.  He  was  the  first 
Lutheran  minister  who  preached  in  this  vicinity.  In  1839,  the 
Somerset  pastor,  Rev.  P.  Rizer,  took  charge  of  St.  James'  as  a 
station,  preaching  in  the  Quaker  meeting  house.     Early  in  1840, 


ST.    JAMES,    JENNERSTOWN    PASTORATE 

a  congregation  was  organized  with  the  above-named  persons  and 
two  others  in  the  Hopewell  M.  E.  Church. 

At  once  preparations  were  made  to  build,  and  in  the  autumn 
of  1840,  a  little  church,  costing  $1,000,  was  dedicated  on  a  piece 
of  ground  given  by  Simon  P.  Shaffer,  in  Jenner  Township.  The 
work  was  largely  done  by  Emmanuel  Cover.  This  edifice,  a 
one-story  frame  structure,  40  by  45  feet,  served  the  people  until 
1887,  when  a  new  church  was  erected  to  the  service  of  God. 

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After  the  church  was  built  Emmanuel  Cover,  a  local  preacher, 
served  during  the  vacancies  of  an  ordained  minister. 

This  congregation  became  a  part  of  the  Stoyestown  pastorate 
in  1843,  its  pastor,  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson,  serving  until  January 
1,  1845.  During  1845,  the  Davidsville  pastorate  was  formed, 
including  St.  James'.  By  the  consent  of  the  president  of  the 
Synod  the  Rev.  Gideon  Butler  took  charge  of  the  Davidsville 
pastorate  in  1846,  and  served  for  three  years  as  the  first  regular 
pastor.  We  have  an  interesting  letter  written  by  him  and  pub- 
lished in  the  Lutheran  Observer  of  October  1,  1847.  In  this 
letter  he  says :  "I  found  it  a  rough  country  and  the  nature  of 
the  people  corresponding  with  the  face  of  the  country — the  people 
spiritually  dead — with  the  exception  of  one  congregation  (St. 
James'),  where  they  have  enjoyed  regular  preaching  by  Brother 
Rizer,  and  after  his  charge  was  divided  by  Brother  S.  B.  Lawson, 
who  has  added  a  great  number  of  members  to  the  Church  through 
this  section  of  the  country.  A  certain  good  sister  at  whose  house 
I  stopped  when  first  I  came  to  this  place  observed  to  me :  'Sir, 
do  you  know  you  are  going  to  Stony  Creek,  so-called  from  its 
rocky  channel.'  Upon  my  answering  in  the  affirmative,  'Well,' 
said  she,  'you  will  find  the  people  much  like  the  name  of  the 
creek;  you  will  need  a  heavy  sledge  and  you  must  handle  it  well, 
for  it  will  take  sledging  before  those  rocks  will  break.'  And  so 
I  have  found  it,  generally,  with  the  above  exception,  but  thank 
God  some  impression  has  been  made  on  some  of  the  rocks,  and 
if  they  are  not  broken  they  are  pretty  well  cracked,  and  I  hope 
with  a  few  more  blows  with  the  gospel  sledge  judiciously  aimed 
will,  by  the  blessing  of  God,  break  some  of  the  flinty  rocks.  In 
one  congregation  there  are  four  male  members  who,  when  I  first 
came,  though  they  are  members  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  had 
many  reasons  to  urge  why  they  ought  not  to  pray  in  public,  yet 
they  are  long  since  praying  members.  All  is  dead  and  lifeless 
in  my  other  congregations.  Vital  religion  is  denounced  as  a 
new  measure,  wild  fire,  etc. 

"I  had  four  congregations  when  I  first  came  here,  one  of  which 
I  had  to  abandon  (Moses)  on  account  of  its  distance  from  the 
one  I  had  to  supply  on  the  same  day,  being  eleven  miles  apart 
and  a  very  rough  road.  I  have  commenced  to  preach  at  a  place, 
Jennersville,  where  they  never  had  Lutheran  preaching,  in  hopes 
654 


ST.  JAMES' 


that  I  might  establish  a  preaching  place  or  a  small  congregation. 
I  have  to  preach  half  of  my  time  in  German.  If  all  goes  well  my 
salary  may  amount  to  $150,  which  will  require  great  economy 
to  pay  board  and  keep  a  horse,  etc. 

"Your  brother  in  Christ, 

"Gideon  Butler." 

Rev.  Butler  resigned  the  pastorate  May  15,  1849,  on  account  of 
failing  health  and  moved  to  Frostburg  where  he  died. 

The  pastors  who  succeeded  Rev.  Butler  were :  Rev.  William  A. 
Kopp,  who  was  the  principal  of  the  Johnstown  Academy  where 
he  lived,  1850-1852 ;  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Bricker,  1852-1854;  Rev. 
Joseph  J.  Bachtell,  1855-1857;  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Bricker,  1857- 
1859;  R-ev-  Jorin  Beaver,  1860-1863 ;  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Bricker,  1864- 
1865;  Rev.  Jacob  B.  Crist,  1867-1869;  Rev.  Adam  R.  Height, 
1870-1871  ;  Rev.  David  Stufft,  1872-1873. 

This  congregation  adopted  a  constitution  April  22,  1861.  Dur- 
ing the  early  part  of  1873,  the  Jennerstown  pastorate  was  formed 
consisting  of  the  St.  James',  Mt.  Zion  and  Jennerstown  congre- 
gations. The  Rev.  Henry  Seifert  took  charge  of  this  pastorate 
June  16,  1873,  and  served  for  three  years.  He  was  succeeded 
by  Rev.  William  M.  Spangler,  1877-1882;  Rev.  Luther  Kuhlman, 
1882-1884;  Rev.  Samuel  Stouffer,  1884-1888;  Rev.  George  W. 
Crist,  1889-1896;  Rev.  J.  W.  Hutchinson,  1896-1900;  Rev.  J.  F. 
Stabley,  1900-1906;  Rev.  Charles  E.  Berkey,  1907-1913;  Rev. 
Elmer  F.  Rice,  19 13 

The  corner-stone  of  a  new  church  was  laid  May  6,  1886,  by 
the  pastor,  Rev.  Samuel  Stouffer.  Rev.  J.  F.  Shearer,  of  Som- 
erset, and  Rev.  A.  Sell,  of  Stoyestown,  assisted  in  the  services. 
The  dedication  services  were  held  January  9,  1887.  Rev.  J.  F. 
Shearer  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  The  pastor  was  also 
assisted  by  Revs.  A.  Sell,  E.  Manges  and  C.  B.  Gruver.  It  is  a 
frame  structure.  50  by  32  feet,  with  spire  and  bell,  and  cost 
$2,570.     On  the  day  of  dedication  $365  was  given. 

Christ  Lutheran  Church,  Jennerstown,  Pa. 
When  Rev.  J.  K.  Bricker  resigned  the  Davidsville  pastorate 
January  1,  1866,  he  continued  to  supply  a  portion  of  the  charge 
in  the  absence  of  a  pastor.     He  is  thought  to  have  preached  in  a 
schoolhouse  here. 

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The  organization  dates  from  March  3,  1871,  when  the  Rev. 
John  P.  Hentz  assisted  at  the  adoption  of  a  constitution,  and 
on  March  4,  of  articles  of  incorporation  and  of  union  with  the 
Davidsville  pastorate.  This  organization,  made  under  the  over- 
sight of  the  pastor  present,  was  later  nullified,  because  it  was 
thought  to  bear  the  impress  of  the  sympathies  of  Rev.  Hentz  for 


CHRIST  CHURCH,  JENNERSTOWN  PASTORATE 

the  General  Council ;  and  Rev.  A.  R.  Height,  of  the  Davidsville 
charge,  reported  to  Synod  his  organization  of  the  congregation, 
March  25,  1871.  On  this  date  the  first  council  was  chosen: 
Elders,  Jeremiah  Shaffer  and  Jacob  Friedline ;  deacons,  Henry 
Brook,  George  Blanset ;  trustees,  John  Brook.  Henry  W.  Maurer 
and  Adam  B.  Shaffer.  A  building  committee,  consisting  of  H. 
656 


MT.  ZION 

W.  Maurer,  George  Friedline  and  Benjamin  Klein,  was 
appointed.  A  lot  was  secured  free.  The  corner-stone  was  laid 
September  23,  1871,  by  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  president  of  Synod, 
assisted  by  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  D.D.,  then  of  Philadelphia.  The 
work  was  largely  done  by  George  S.  Blanset.  The  church  was 
dedicated  by  the  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  who  preached  the  sermon. 
At  this  time  the  first  regular  pastor,  Rev.  D.  Stufft,  confirmed 
a  class.  The  building  is  a  plank-frame  structure,  60  by  38  feet, 
and  cost  about  $3,000.  In  1873  a  plot  of  ground  near  the  church 
was  purchased  for  a  parsonage,  at  a  cost  of  $1,300.  During  Rev. 
G.  W.  Grist's  pastorate  a  new  parsonage  was  built,  at  a  cost  of 
$1,400.  This  church  passed  through  a  crisis  because  of  the 
removal  and  the  death  of  so  many  of  its  members;  but  new  life 
has  appeared  and  the  membership  has  been  increased  so  that  at 
the  present  there  are  105  members  on  the  roll  (1916).  During 
1915,  the  church  was  repapered,  electric  light  installed,  and  two 
flues  built,  at  a  cost  of  $200.  This  church  has  always  been  a 
part  of  the  Tennerstown  pastorate  since  its  organization,  June  16, 

1873- 

Mt.  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

The  Mt.  Zion  congregation,  composed  of  members  largely  from 
the  St.  James'  congregation,  was  organized  April  27,  1S71,  by 
the  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  in  the  Maurer's  schoolhouse.  It  had 
forty  charter  members.  A  constitution  was  adopted  and  the 
following  officers  were  elected  and  installed :  Elders,  Daniel 
Fisher,  George  Rink  and  Samuel  Boyer ;  deacons,  Noah  Lohr, 
William  H.  Rink  and  Alexander  Landers;  trustees,  Jeremiah 
Maurer,  John  Rink  and  Samuel  Boyer. 

The  congregation  made  arrangements  to  build  a  brick  church 
on  a  lot  donated  by  Aaron  Walker  on  the  eastern  slope  of  the 
Laurel  Hill,  about  four  miles  northwest  of  Jennerstown.  The 
corner-stone  was  laid  September  23,  1871,  by  the  Rev.  John  Tom- 
linson, assisted  by  the  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  D.D.  The  church,  a 
one-story  brick  structure,  60  by  38  feet,  was  built  at  a  cost  of 
$3,000,  and  was  dedicated  to  the  public  worship  of  God,  June  30. 
1872,  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  D.  Stufft.  The  dedicatory  sermon  was 
preached  by  the  Rev.  J.  B.  Crist,  of  Altoona. 

The  work  of  this  congregation  flourished  until   1888,  when  it 

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passed  through  a  crisis.  "Many  prominent  members  moved 
away,  and  others  being  removed  by  death,  led  some  to  believe 
that  the  work  might  as  well  be  abandoned.  But  a  change  for 
the  better  came  and  the  work  has  maintained  a  steady  growth, 
until  it  has  attained  a  membership  of  seventy-seven,  the  largest 
at  present  in  the  pastorate,"  so  wrote  Rev.  Berkey  in  191 1.    The 


MT.    ZloX,   JENNERSTOWN 

work  has  continued  to  grow,  until  we  now  have  a  membership 
of  no  on  the  roll  (1917). 

During  the  summer  of  1916  this  congregation  decided  to 
remodel  their  church  building.  Two  rooms  were  excavated,  a 
new  ceiling  was  placed  in  the  building,  and  the  walls  and  ceiling 
frescoed,  the  interior  woodwork  and  the  outside  of  the  building 
658 


STANTON  MILLS 


were  treated  to  a  coat  of  paint,  a  steam  heating  system  was 
installed,  a  flue  built  on  the  outside  of  the  building,  figured  art 
glass  was  put  in  all  of  the  windows,  an  oil  painting  of  the  ascen- 
sion of  Christ  was  painted  back  of  the  altar,  new  pews  and  pul- 
pit furniture  were  installed.  A  cement  walk  was  laid  in  front 
of  the  church.  The  total  cost  was  about  $2,800.  Services  of 
rededication  were  held  February  4,  1917.  The  pastor,  Rev.  Elmer 
F.  Rice,  was  assisted  by  the  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  of  Elk 
Lick,  and  the  Rev.  Robert  D.  Clare,  of  Johnstown,  Pa.  The 
entire  indebtedness  was  cancelled  on  the  day  of  dedication.  The 
Mt.  Zion  Church  is  now  one  of  the  most  beautiful  of  the  country 
churches  in  the  Alleghany  Synod. 

Stanton  Mills  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
Members  of  the  Stoyestown,  Horner's  and  St.  James'  congre- 
gations who  lived  at  Stanton  Mills  and  vicinity  having  been 
served  with  preaching  by  the  Stoyestown  pastors,  took  steps  to 
organize  a  congregation  of  their  own  at  this  place.  The  congre- 
gation was  organized  November  13,  1886,  with  thirty-two  char- 
ter members.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  the  same  day  by  the 
Rev.' A.  Sell,  on  a  lot  donated  by  Frederick  Slagle.  The  pastor 
was  assisted  by  the  Revs.  C.  B.  Gruver,  Welch,  and  S.  Stouffer. 
A  building  was  erected  at  a  cost  of  $1,500,  and  was  dedicated 
May  15,  1887,  Dv  tne  pastor,  A.  Sell.  Rev.  W.  W.  Criley  preached 
the  sermon.  Revs.  Houseman  and  Stouffer  assisting  in  the  serv- 
ices. This  congregation  was  received  into  the  Alleghany  Synod 
in  1887,  as  a  part  of  the  Jennerstown  pastorate.  Its  present 
membership  is  sixteen.  The  work  was  abandoned  in  191 1,  as 
the  building  stands  on  ground  at  the  very  end  of  the  waters  of 
Lake  Quemahoning.  The  members  were  compelled  to  move 
elsewhere  when  this  artificial  lake  was  built.  Services  have  been 
resumed  with  the  hope  that  it  may  be  continued  for  the  con- 
venience of  the  people  in  the  vicinity. 

St.  Andrew's  Lutheran  Church,  Boswell 
The  Merchants'  Coal  Company,  in  the  early  spring  of  1901, 
started  operations  about  one  and  one-half  miles  north  of  Tenners, 
Pa.,  and  in  a  verv  short  time  a  town  sprang  up  called  Boswell. 
Lutherans  from  the  immediate  vicinity  moved  into  the  town  and 
began   business.      The   need   of   a   church    was   reported   to   the 

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Somerset  Conference  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  the  autumn  of 
1901.  On  motion  of  the  Conference  Rev.  J.  F.  Stabley  and  Rev. 
E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  were  appointed  a  committee  to  secure  a 
lot.  This  committee  reported  favorably  at  the  spring  Conference. 
Revs.  J.  F.  Stabley,  E.  S.  Johnston  and  L.  N.  Fleck  were 
appointed  a  committee  to  organize  a  Sunday  school  and  to  hold 
preaching  services  if  they  deemed  it  advisable. 

On  June   10.   1902,  the  committee  met  and  rented  a  hall  and 
organized  a  Sunday  school  with  J.  H.  Mahaffey,  superintendent, 


ST.  ANDREW  S  LUTHERAN  CHURCH,  BOSWELL,  PA. 


and  Bruce  Phillippi,  secretary.  The  first  preaching  services  were 
held  July  6,  1903,  by  the  Rev.  J.  F.  Stabley.  Services  were  held 
regularly  each  Sabbath  evening  by  the  committee  assisted  by  the 
Rev.  C.  M.  Wachter,  of  Davidsville,  until  September  20,  1903, 
on  which  date  an  organization  was  effected  with  twenty-one 
charter  members.  A  constitution  was  adopted  and  the  name  of 
St.  Andrew  was  decided  upon.  The  following  officers  were 
elected:  Elders,  J.  J.  Shaffer  and  R.  B.  Phillippi;  deacons, 
Charles  F.  Livengood  and  Charles  A.  Miller. 

The  Alleghany  Synod,  held  in  Meyersdale  from  September 
25  to  October  1,  received  the  St.  Andrew's  congregation  as  an 
660 


ST.   AN  DREW- S,   BOSWELL 


integral  part  of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  and  placed  it  under  the 
care  of  the  Jennerstown  pastorate. 

A  lot  was  purchased  of  John  Mock  on  the  corner  of  Main 
Street  and  Merchant's  Avenue  for  the  sum  of  $500.  A  building 
committee  of  R.  O.  Crist,  R.  B.  Phillippi,  C.  A.  Miller,  Kane 
Ober,  Joseph  Silva,  George  Schorl"  and  F.  C.  Elden  was 
appointed.  Charles  F.  Livengood  and  R.  O.  Crist  were 
appointed  to  solicit  funds.  Ground  was  broken  with  appropriate 
services  August  22,  1904.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  by  the 
pastor  September  18,  1904.  The  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev. 
L.  N.  Fleck,  D.D.  The  building  was  dedicated  to  the  service  of 
God,  May  14,  1905.  The  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  R.  S. 
Paterson,  Revs.  Charles  Lambert,  George  W.  Crist  and  J.  F. 
Stabley  assisting  in  the  services.  It  cost  about  $2,500,  and  was 
dedicated  free  of  debt.  It  was  a  frame  structure,  35  by  50  feet, 
Gothic,  with  tower  and  bell,  circular  oak  pews,  stained  glass  and 
electric  lights. 

Rev.  Berkey  writes  in  191 1  :  "We  have  thirty-five  members  at 
the  present.  Many  of  the  members  come  and  go  so  that  its 
growth  has  not  been  steady.  After  four  years  of  service  the 
present  pastor  has  on  the  roll  a  new  list  of  members  with  the 
exception  of  five."  But  during  the  winter  and  spring  of 
1914,  St.  Andrew's  took  on  new  life.  A  successful  revival  was 
held  in  which  the  pastor  was  assisted  by  the  Rev.  L.  L.  Sieber, 
of  Gettysburg,  Pa.  From  that  time  to  the  present  (1916)  we 
have  been  growing  steadily,  until  now  we  have  on  the  roll  250 
members.  Our  building  became  too  small  for  the  great  increase 
and  on  April  15,  191 5,  it  was  decided  to  build  a  new  church.  The 
adjoining  lot  on  Main  Street  was  purchased  for  $350.  A  build- 
ing committee  of  L.  G.  Hoffman,  L.  L.  Ober,  R.  B.  Phillippi, 
John  O.  Himble  and  Herman  Krause  was  elected.  Ground  was 
broken  July  14,  1916,  and  the  corner-stone  was  laid  by  the  pastor 
September  3,  1916.  The  sermon  for  the  occasion  was  preached 
by  the  Rev.  John  McCarney,  of  Friedens,  Pa. 

The  contract  was  let  to  B.  F.  Gindlesperger.  It  is  78  by  58 
feet,  of  Gothic  design,  figured  and  ornamental  art  glass,  brick  and 
tile  structure,  with  separate  Sunday  school  rooms  and  social 
rooms  in  the  basement,  electric  lights,  circular  oak  pews,  and 
cost,  approximately,  $20,000. 

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Services  of  dedication  were  held  from  April  30  to  May  13. 
The  dedicatory  services  were  conducted  by  the  pastor,  Rev. 
Elmer  F.  Rice,  at  the  evening-  service  of  May  6,  1917.  The 
morning  sermon  on  the  day  of  dedication  was  delivered  by  the 
Rev.  F.  R.  Wagner,  president  of  Synod.  The  Rev.  Robert  D. 
Clare  preached  in  the  afternoon,  and  the  Rev.  S.  N.  Carpenter 
in  the  evening.  The  Rev.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  had  charge  of  the 
finances  for  the  day. 

The  week  previous  and  the  week  following  the  day  of  dedi- 
cation the  following  brethren  preached :  Revs.  I.  H.  Wagner, 
D.D.,  I.  P.  Hawkins,  Simon  Snyder,  Roy  V.  Derr,  Clay  E.  Rice, 
J.  S.  English,  E.  Roy  Hauser,  Guy  E.  McCarney,  E.  E.  Oney  and 
C.  E.  Berkey.  The  building  was  dedicated  to  the  service  of  God 
with  a  debt  of  only  $5,500  upon  it.  Great  was  the  rejoicing  that 
this  beautiful  church  was  dedicated  with  so  small  a  debt  upon 
it.  The  completion  of  this  church  is  a  remarkable  achievement 
for  this  congregation.  May  6,  19 17,  will  be  a  day  long  remem- 
bered in  the  history  of  St.  Andrew's  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  of  Boswell. 


THE  FIRST  ENGLISH  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

Rev.  R.  D.  Clare,  Pastor 

Johnstown,  Pa. 

Special  interest  attaches  to  the  history  of  the  First  English 
Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown,  because  of  the  fact  that  this 
church  holds  the  position  of  a  mother  organization  among  all  the 
other  strong  Lutheran  congregations  which  now  exist  in  Johns- 
town and  its  vicinity. 

For  most  of  our  information  concerning  the  earliest  years  of 
this  church's  career  we  are  indebted  to  data  collected  in  1876  by 
the  Rev.  Reuben  A.  Fink  and  embodied  by  him  in  a  valuable 
historical  sketch,  while  the  files  of  the  Johnstozun  Tribune  and  the 
Lutheran  Observer,  together  with  an  important  sketch  written  in 
1902  by  the  Rev.  William  Alfred  Shipman,  D.D.,  have  preserved 
for  us  all  the  most  important  facts  connected  with  the  church's 
more  recent  development.  Unfortunately,  many  of  the  church's 
most  valuable  records  were  swept  away  by  the  great  flood 
which  devastated  Johnstown  in  the  spring  of  1889,  and  for  that 
662 


FIRST,  JOHNSTOWN 


reason  certain  periods  of  its  history  cannot  be  treated  with  that 
fullness  and  accuracy  of  detail  that  might  be  desired. 

Lutheran  settlers  evidently  located  upon  the  present  site  of 
Johnstown  at  the  very  beginning  of  the  last  century.  While  it  is 
probable  that  they  were  visited  occasionally  by  some  of  the  pio- 
neer Lutheran  preachers  of  that  period  there  is  apparently  no 
record  to  that  effect.  There  are  reliable  records,  however,  which 
tell  us  that  for  a  few  years  prior  to  1824,  the  Rev.  John  C. 
Rebenach,  pastor  at  Somerset  in  1819  and  1820,  preached  occa- 
sionally in  this  vicinity,  while  in  the  year  mentioned— 1824 — he 
began  to  preach  at  stated  intervals  in  a  schoolhouse  situated  in 
what  is  now  the  First  Ward  of  the  city  of  Johnstown.  Others 
who  preached  in  the  same  schoolhouse  at  intervals  more  or  less 
regular  in  the  years  immediately  following  were  the  Revs.  Wil- 
helm  Shultz,  C.  F.  Heyer  of  Somerset,  N.  G.  Sharretts  and 
Jacob  Medtart,  pastors  at  Indiana,  1827-1838,  and  1838-1842, 
respectively.  In  1829  or  1830,  the  schoolhouse  was  apparently 
abandoned  and  services  were  held  in  a  brick  warehouse  built  by 
Peter  Levergood.  At  this  time,  Peter  Levergood,  J.  A.  Trefts 
and  Daniel  Seigh  were  appointed  to  care  for  the  interests  of 
the  Lutherans  in  the  town  and  its  vicinity.  The  organization  of 
the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown  dates  from  this 
period. 

In  1832  the  first  church  edifice  was  erected  on  the  site  of  the 
present  building,  the  formal  dedication  taking  place  on  Ascen- 
sion Day,  1834.  The  ground  upon  which  the  new  church  was 
built  was  owned  by  Peter  Levergood ;  but  the  latter  subsequently 
gave  to  the  congregation  a  deed  for  the  property,  and,  besides 
paying  all  but  $300  of  the  cost  of  the  building,  also  provided  his 
fellow-Lutherans  with  a  parsonage  and  a  Sunday  school  building. 

The  first  settled  pastor  of  the  congregation  after  the  erection 
of  the  church  building  was  the  Rev.  C.  Barnitz.  At  the  close  of 
his  pastorate,  in  1842,  the  Alleghany  Synod  was  formed  and  a 
change  occurred  in  the  congregation's  Synodical  affiliations. 

After  the  resignation  of  the  Rev.  Barnitz,  the  Rev.  Jacob 
Martin,  of  Hollidaysburg,  preached  occasionally  until  1843  when 
the  Rev.  Peter  Reitmeyer  became  pastor.  The  latter  served  only 
two  years,  and  from  the  time  of  his  resignation  until  1847  the 
church's  pulpit  was  supplied  occasionally  by  the  Rev.  Mr.  Butler, 

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of  Cumberland,  Md.  In  1847,  the  Rev.  A.  Bosserman  became 
pastor,  remaining  with  the  congregation  just  one  year ;  and  in 
1848  the  Rev.  P.  Sahm  took  charge  and  continued  to  serve 
until  1852.  During  the  Rev.  Sahm's  pastorate  the  German  ele- 
ment of  the  congregation  withdrew  and  established  the  Zion 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown,  now  one  of  the 
largest  congregations  in  the  General  Council.  Previous  to  the 
withdrawal  of  the  German  members  services  had  been  conducted 
in  both  languages,  but  since  that  event  only  the  English  has  been 
required. 

On  April  2,  1849,  the  congregation  was  incorporated  by  the 
court  of  Cambria  County  as  "The  Evangelical  Lutheran  congre- 
gation at  Johnstown,"  the  incorporators  being  the  Rev.  P.  Sahm, 
with  the  Messrs.  Jacob  Levergood,  Dr.  Michael  Hay  and  Gott- 
lieb Beierly,  as  elders,  and  the  Messrs.  Frederick  Marbourg,  John 
Benton  and  J.  W.  Wehn,  as  deacons. 

During  the  Rev.  Sahm's  pastorate  the  Wilmore  Lutheran 
Church  was  organized  as  a  part  of  the  Johnstown  charge.  On 
June  5,  1844,  the  Rev.  Peter  Reitmeyer  had  organized  a  congre- 
gation at  the  "Half-way  House,"  the  name  then  given  to  what 
is  now  Summerhill.  Up  to  within  a  few  years  of  the  Civil  War 
these  congregations  constituted  one  charge. 

On  April  1,  1853,  the  Rev.  Jacob  Martin  was  called  to  the 
Johnstown  pastorate.  Some  time  in  the  year  1855  ne  resigned.  The 
Rev.  D.  Swope  assumed  charge  April  1,  1856,  and  remained  with 
the  congregation  until  March  27,  1859.  From  the  third  Sunday 
in  October,  1859,  until  February  10,  1861,  the  Rev.  C.  L.  Keedy 
was  pastor,  the  latter  being  succeeded  on  January  1,  1862,  by  the 
Rev.  A.  C.  Ehrenfelt,  who  continued  to  labor  here  until  March  31, 
1864.  During  the  year  and  a  half  immediately  following  the 
Rev.  Keedy's  resignation  the  pastoral  office  was  vacant,  but  occa- 
sional preaching  services  were  conducted  by  the  Rev.  J.  W. 
Schwartz,  of  Johnstown. 

On  November  1,  1865,  the  Rev.  Reuben  A.  Fink,  D.D.,  previ- 
ously of  Lewisburg,  assumed  pastoral  relations,  and  with  his 
advent  the  church  entered  upon  a  new  epoch  of  material  growth 
and  spiritual  vitality.  At  this  time  the  congregation  numbered 
175  communicant  members,  while  the  Sunday  school  had  an 
enrollment  of  340  scholars. 
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FIRST,   JOHNSTOWN 


Near  the  close  of  the  Rev.  Ehrenfelt's  pastorate,  in  1864,  it 
was  resolved  by  the  congregation  to  build  a  new  church,  and  the 
following  building  committee  was  chosen :  Messrs.  John  Benton, 
Jacob  Levergood,  F.  W.  Hay,  Jacob  Fend  and  James  McMillen. 
Because  of  ill  health  Mr.  Levergood  was  able  to  serve  for  only  a 
short  time,  his  place  on  the  committee  being  taken  by  Mr.  John 
Parke,  while  the  committee  was  subsequently  enlarged  by  the 
addition  of  Messrs.  Joseph  Koontz  and  Jacob  Swank. 


FORMER    FIRST   LUTHERAN    CHURCH    BUILDING,   JOHNSTOWN,,    PA. 

The  old  church,  a  neat  and  commodious  brick  structure,  occu- 
pied by  the  congregation  for  more  than  thirty  years,  was  torn 
down  in  February,  1864,  and  from  that  time  until  the  new  build- 
ing was  ready  for  occupancy  the  congregation  worshiped  suc- 
cessively in  the  German  Lutheran  Church,  on  Locust  Street,  and 
the  Methodist  Protestant  Church,  then  located  on  Franklin 
Street. 

The  work  upon  the  foundations  of  the  new  building  was  begun 

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in  the  spring  of  1864,  but  the  corner-stone  was  not  laid  until 
June  18,  1865.  In  this  latter  ceremony  the  Revs.  S.  A.  Holman, 
of  Altoona,  and  J.  W.  Schwartz,  of  Johnstown,  officiated.  In 
June,  1866,  the  congregation  began  holding  services  in  the  base- 
ment of  the  new  structure,  and  on  May  19,  1867,  the  formal 
dedication  took  place,  the  services  being  in  charge  of  the  newly 
elected  pastor,  the  Rev.  Reuben  A.  Fink,  D.D.,  and  the  dedicatory 
sermon  being  preached  by  the  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad,  D.D.,  of 
Philadelphia.  The  cost  of  the  new  building  was  $30,000,  the 
entire  amount  being  raised  before  the  dedication. 

The  building  was  beautiful  in  design  and  commodious  in  all 
its  appointments.  One  of  its  most  distinguishing  features  was  a 
large  tower,  the  top  of  which  was  just  160  feet  from  the  ground. 
In  this  tower  there  was,  in  addition  to  a  clear-toned  1455-pound 
bell,  a  great  three-faced  clock.  This  clock  was  donated  in  1902  to 
the  City  Hall. 

In  1887,  necessary  repairs  were  made  to  the  church  at  a  cost 
of  about  $1,700,  and  on  September  25  of  this  year  the  improved 
edifice  was  rededicated,  the  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad  again  preaching 
the  dedicatory  sermon. 

It  was  near  the  close  of  Dr.  Fink's  long  and  fruitful  pastorate 
that  the  terrible  Johnstown  Flood  occurred.  In  the  appalling 
rush  of  waters  on  May  31,  1889,  the  First  Lutheran  Church 
stood  firm,  but  the  congregation  suffered  inestimable  losses  in 
precious  lives  and  material  resources.  Christian  faith  and  cour- 
age triumphed,  however,  even  over  this  great  calamity  with  its 
many  reverses  and  a  new  start  was  again  made. 

In  February,  1890,  Dr.  Fink,  because  of  bodily  infirmities 
which  were  largely  the  result  of  the  distressing  experiences  and 
excessive  labors  incident  to  the  awful  catastrophe  of  the  previous 
year,  resigned  as  active  pastor  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church. 
The  congregation,  having  no  alternative,  reluctantly  accepted  his 
resignation,  but  as  an  evidence  of  love  and  appreciation  it  at 
once  elected  him  as  pastor  emeritus,  which  position  he  continued 
to  hold  up  to  the  time  of  his  lamented  death  on  March  25,  1895. 

On  March  13,  1890,  the  Rev.  William  Alfred  Shipman,  D.D., 
then  of  Plollidaysburg,  was  elected  as   successor  to  Dr.   Fink. 
Dr.  Shipman  accepted  the  call  on  April  25,  1890.  and  on  June  1, 
of  that  year,  he  assumed  full  pastoral  relations. 
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FIRST,  JOHNSTOWN 


Another  period  of  remarkable  growth  and  prosperity  now 
followed.  As  a  new  Johnstown  sprang  up  out  of  the  wreck 
and  ruin  of  the  awful  flood,  the  First  Church  more  than  kept 
pace  with  surrounding  developments,  and  in  point  of  both 
numerical  strength  and  social  influence  it  soon  became  the  com- 
munity's leading  congregation. 

In  the  spring  of  1901,  the  congregation  for  the  third  time  in 
its  history  took  steps  to  erect  a  new  house  of  worship,  the 
following  persons  being  chosen  as  a  building  committee :  Messrs. 
H.  H.  Weaver,  Curt  G.  Campbell,  Alexander  McKeever  and 
William  Cooke.  The  last  services  in  the  old  church  were  held 
Easter  Sunday,  April  7,  and  from  that  time  until  the  new  edifice 
was  completed  the  congregation  met  for  its  services  in  the 
Cambria  Library  auditorium.  During  the  summer  of  1901,  the 
old  building  was  demolished,  and  on  August  3,  the  corner-stone 
of  the  new  structure  was  laid.  The  work  of  building  was  finished 
late  in  the  fall  of  1902,  and  on  Sunday,  November  9,  of  this  year, 
a  joyful  feast  of  dedication  was  observed,  the  Rev.  Charles  S. 
Albert,  D.D.,  of  Philadelphia,  preaching  the  dedicatory  sermon. 
This  new  building  is  the  one  now  occupied  by  the  congregation. 
It  has  many  beautiful  and  modern  appointments,  and  is  one  of 
the  handsomest  church  edifices  in  the  city.  The  total  cost  of 
building  and  equipment  was  approximately  $60,000. 

While  industriously  seeking  to  acquire  a  better  material  equip- 
ment for  its  work,  the  congregation  was  also  very  active  during 
this  period  in  enlarging  her  sphere  of  spiritual  endeavor  and 
fruitfulness.  In  1901,  a  Lutheran  Sunday  school,  which  had 
been  conducted  in  Moxham  for  about  four  years  by  members  of 
the  First  Church,  was  organized  into  a  mission  and  provided  with 
a  place  of  worship,  to  which  was  given  the  name,  "The  Coleman 
Avenue  Chapel."  Under  the  fostering  care  of  the  pastor  and 
members  of  the  First  Church  this  mission  experienced  a  steady 
and  substantial  growth,  and  in  the  spring  of  1907,  it  became  a 
separate  and  independent  congregation  under  the  name  of  "The 
Moxham  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church." 

With  the  year  1910.  Dr.  Shipman's  long  term  of  service  as 
pastor  of  the  First  Church  was  brought  to  a  close  by  his  re- 
tiring from  the  pastorate  December  31.  In  Dr.  Shipman's  last 
parochial  report  to  Synod  we  find  the  congregation  credited  with 

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an  active  communicant  membership  of  750,  and  the  Sunday  school 
with  a  membership  of  400. 

At  a  congregational  meeting  held  Sunday,  February  5,  191 1, 
the  Rev.  Robert  D.  Clare,  then  pastor  of  the  St.  Matthew's 
Lutheran  Church,  Vork,  was  elected  to  succeed  Dr.  Shipman. 
His  acceptance  of  the  call  extended  to  him  was  announced  one 


FIRST    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    JOHNSTOWN,    PA. 


week  later,  and  on  Sunday,  March  19,  he  assumed  full  pastoral 
relations. 

During  the  following  year  special  attention  was  paid  to  the 
organization  of  the  Sunday  school-  along  most  modern  and  effi- 
cient lines.  A  Home  Department  and  a  Cradle  Roll  were  formed, 
the  classes  were  graded,  new  literature  was  introduced  and  more 
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FIRS T,  JOHNS  TO  WN 


than  six  hundred  members  were  added  to  the  general  enrollment. 
Special  work  was  also  undertaken  with  the  boys  of  the  school 
and  congregation,  and  a  Junior  Brotherhood  was  organized. 

In  November,  of  191 1,  the  young  people  of  the  First  Church 
took  the  initiative  in  bringing  all  the  Lutheran  congregations  of 
the  city  together  for  an  inspiring  joint  Luther  Day  observance. 
This  observance,  which  has  ever  since  been  an  annual  event  of 
considerable  importance  and  prominence,  has  served  to  unite  our 
Lutheran  congregations  for  enthusiastic  co-operation  along 
various  other  lines  of  church  activity. 

In  January,  191 2,  the  finances  of  the  congregation  were  put 
upon  a  more  efficient  plane,  and  the  weekly  duplex  envelope 
system  was  introduced.  The  rapid  growth  of  the  Sunday  school 
in  one  year  from  400  to  1,000  brought  a  demand  for  larger 
quarters.  Consequently,  in  the  summer  of  1912,  the  basement 
of  the  Sunday  school  annex  was  excavated  and  a  large  room  for 
adults,  with  two  extra  class  rooms  and  a  kitchen  attached,  was 
created.  At  the  same  time  the  other  rooms  of  the  Sunday  school 
were  enlarged  and  improved.  The  entire  cost  of  this  work  was 
something  in  excess  of  $7,000.  At  an  impressive  service  of 
rededication,  held  November  10,  this  amount  was  fully  provided 
for  by  cash  contributions  and  subscriptions. 

In  the  fall  of  191 3,  the  congregation  purchased  a  beautiful 
and  commodious  parsonage,  located  at  332  Vine  Street,  at  a  cost 
of  $16,000. 

During  the  six  and  one-half  years  of  the  present  pastorate 
more  than  seven  hundred  members  have  been  received  into  the 
congregational  fellowship,  a  fine  efficiency  of  organization  has 
been  attained,  all  financial  obligations  have  been  met,  and  an 
ever-increasing  spirit  of  benevolent  and  missionary  activity  has 
greatlv  enlarged  the  congregation's  sphere  of  Christian  service 
and  fruitfulness. 

The  First  English  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown  has  had  a 
noble  history.  Since  its  humble  beginning  nearly  a  century  ago 
it  has  passed  through  many  trying  vicissitudes,  but  it  has  always 
enjoyed  signal  evidences  of  the  Divine  favor  and  guidance.  It 
has  been  greatly  blessed  and  it  has  also  been  a  blessing,  multitudes 
both  at  home  and  abroad  having  come  within  the  sphere  of  its 
beneficent  influences.     Its  present  is  bright  and  prosperous.     Its 

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future,  in  this  year  of  grace  1917,  is  as  hopeful  and  inspiring  as 
the  promises  of  God. 


TRINITY  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

Johnstown,  Pa. 

Rev.  S.  N.  Carpenter,  D.D.,  Pastor 

In  the  year  1885,  Mr.  A.  J.  Follmar,  an  active  member  of  the 
First  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown,  made  a  canvass  of  the 
Seventh  Ward  of  the  city  and  the  immediate  vicinity.  The 
canvass  disclosed  a  sufficient  number  of  families  to  justify  the 
establishment  of  a  Sunday  school.  During  the  same  year  a 
Sunday  school  was  organized  in  a  small  frame  building  located 
on  Horner  Street,  which  had  been  formerly  used  as  a  German 
schoolhouse.  This  building  was  used  as  a  Sunday  school  room 
for  a  period  of  a  few  months.  The  school  afterward  occupied  a 
room  leased  from  the  Johnstown  Borough  schools  for  the  space 
of  one  year. 

At  the  expiration  of  the  lease  for  the  schoolhouse  a  lot  on 
Horner  Street  was  leased  from  the  Grafe  heirs  for  a  term  of  ten 
years  at  an  annual  rental  of  $20.  In  the  spring  of  1886,  a 
frame  chapel,  30  by  50  feet,  was  erected  on  the  aforesaid  lot  at 
a  cost  of  $1,000,  not  including  the  cost  of  the  simple  furnishings 
of  the  room.  Sunday  school  services  were  held  in  this  chapel 
regularly.  There  were  occasional  preaching  services  through 
the  assistance  of  neighboring  pastors,  such  as  the  Revs.  David 
Stuft,  of  the  Scalp  Level  charge;  J.  N.  Unruh,  of  the  Hoovers- 
ville  charge,  and  W.  H.  Settlemeyer,  of  the  Rockwood  charge. 

The  congregation  was  organized  March  21,  1887,  with  the 
name,  Second  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown,  by  the  Rev.  R.  A. 
Fink,  D.D.,  who  was  at  that  time  the  pastor  of  the  First  Lutheran 
Church.  The  organization  consisted  of  thirteen  charter  members 
as  follows:  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Adam  J.  Follmar,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Daniel  Ott,  Mr.  and  Airs.  Emmanuel  Seese,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  H.  C. 
Adams,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  J.  J.  Seelar  and  Mrs.  Eliza  Stickler,  all 
former  members  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church,  and  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Robert  Crissey,  who  were  former  members  of  Graef 
Lutheran  Church.  The  new  organization  was  supplied  by  the 
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TRINITY,  JOHXS  TO  J  J  'N 


aforementioned     pastors     and     by    the     Rev.     [.    J.     Kerr,     of 
Altoona,  Pa. 

At  the  convention  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  held  at  the  First 
Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown,  in  1888,  the  organization  was 
represented  by  A.  J.  Follmar,  as  commissioner,  and  the  congre- 
gation was  received  as  a  part  of  the  Alleghany  Synod. 


TRINITY    LUTHERAN   CHURCH,   JOHNSTOWN,   PA. 

In  the  fall  of  1888,  the  congregation  of  thirty  members 
extended  a  call  to  Rev.  J.  J.  Kerr.  Rev.  Kerr  accepted  the  call, 
but  did  not  move  to  the  city,  and  resigned  after  a  few  months' 
pastorate.  The  first  officers  who  served  the  congregation  were : 
Elders,  A,  J.  Follmar,  Isaac  Ream  and  Emmanuel  Seese ;  deacons, 
Jacob  Wonders,  George  E.  Thomas  and  Conrad  Block. 

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The  first  resident  pastor  was  the  Rev.  G.  W.  W.  Amick,  who 
came  to  the  charge  from  Oakland,  Md.  He  served  the  congre- 
gation as  pastor  from  April,  1889,  to  February,  1898. 

Just  as  the  people  were  about  to  proceed  with  the  installation 
of  their  new  pastor  their  plans  were  averted  by  the  disaster  of 
May  31,  1889,  which  is  known  as  the  Johnstown  Flood.  The 
chapel  was  flooded  and  the  furniture  and  fixtures  were  destroyed, 


THREE   REMAINING    CHARTER    MEMBERS,    TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    JOHNS- 
TOWN— MR.    AND    MRS.    A.    J.    FOLLMAR,    MRS.    MARY    ADAMS 

leaving  the  congregation  without  a  place  of  worship  for  some 
time.  The  chapel  was  fitted  up  temporarily  and  used  as  a  com- 
missary from  whence  were  distributed  food  and  clothing  to  the 
stricken  people  of  the  Conemaugh  Valley.  Regular  services  were 
resumed  in  Jul)-  of  the  same  year. 

On  November  15,  1889,  the  two  lots  which  constitute  the  pres- 
ent site  of  the  church,  at  Pine  and  Hickory  Streets,  were  pur- 
672 


TRINITY,  JOHNSTOWN 


chased  from  E.  J.  Govier  for  the  sum  ■  of  $3,000.  On  March  9, 
1890,  at  a  congregational  meeting,  the  name  of  the  church  was 
changed  to  Trinity  Lutheran  Church  of  Johnstown.  The  organ- 
ization was  incorporated  in  the  courts  of  Cambria  County  the 
same  year. 

On  April  9,  1893,  the  congregation  decided  to  erect  a  house  of 
worship  at  a  cost  of  $16,000.  The  work  was  well  in  progress 
when  the  financial  panic  and  depression  of  1893  set  m-  One  °f 
the  leading  industries  of  the  city,  known  as  the  Johnson  Works, 
moved  their  large  rail  mill  to  Lorain,  O.,  working  financial 
disaster  to  the  congregation.  In  spite  of  these  adversities  the 
new  edifice  was  erected  and  the  Sunday  school  apartment  was 
completed,  leaving  the  auditorium  to  be  completed  later.  All 
services  were  now  held  in  the  Sunday  school  room  until  1903. 

The  second  regular  pastor  was  the  Rev.  Charles  W.  Anschutz, 
D.D.,  who  served  as  pastor  from  May,  1898,  to  September  30, 
1909.  Rev.  Anschutz  came  to  this  work  from  North  Manchester, 
Ind.  During  the  period  of  vacancy  the  congregation  was  sup- 
plied with  preaching  services  by  the  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell,  of  Altoona, 
Pa. 

Rev.  Anschutz  found  a  congregation  of  about  two  hundred 
members.  There  was  a  debt  of  $22,000.  and  a  growing  and 
promising  field  of  labor.  The  main  auditorium  of  the  church 
was  completed  and  dedicated  in  1903.  The  cost  of  this  improve- 
ment was  $2,500.  A  part  of  the  basement  was  excavated  and 
fitted  up  for  the  work  of  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society  and  social 
gatherings  at  a  cost  of  about  $600,  and  the  primary  room  of  the 
Sunday  school  was  partitioned  and  fitted  with  small  chairs. 

During  the  years  from  1898  to  1909,  these  improvements  were 
paid  and  the  debt  was  reduced  to  $7,500.  These  financial  opera- 
tions were  accomplished  by  means  of  great  and  heroic  sacrifices 
on  the  part  of  the  congregation.  Special  credit  is  due  to  the 
members  of  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society  for  their  untiring  efforts  to 
put  the  credit  and  financial  status  of  the  congregation  on  a 
secure  foundation.  Rev.  Anschutz  left  a  congregation  of  350 
members. 

A  Luther  League  was  organized  on  September  14,  1902.  It 
continued  for  some  years,  but  was  finally  discontinued.  A 
Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized 

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about  January  i,  1904.  It  was  in  existence  for  about  two  years. 
After  the  resignation  of  Rev.  Anschutz  the  congregation  was 
without  a  pastor  for  the  period  of  five  months. 

The  Rev.  H.  C.  Rose  was  the  third  regular  pastor  of  the  con- 
gregation. He  served  as  pastor  from  February,  19 10,  to  Sep- 
tember 1,  1913.    He  came  to  his  work  at  Trinity  from  Saxton,  Pa. 

In  May,  1910,  the  auditorium  and  the  Sunday  school  rooms 
of  the  church  were  frescoed  at  a  cost  of  $564. 

The'  church    celebrated    the    twenty-fifth    anniversary    of   the 


REV.    S.    N.    CAKI'KNTER,    D.D. 


organization  of  the  Sunday  school  during  the  week,  October 
26-30,  1910.  During  the  process  of  this  celebration  the  congre- 
gation subscribed  the  entire  remaining  indebtedness  of  the  church. 
Part  of  the  sum  thus  subscribed  was  consumed  in  the  payment 
of  interest  while  awaiting  the  time  for  the  maturity  of  the  obli- 
gations, and  some  of  the  subscriptions  were  not  redeemed. 
674 


TRINI TY,  JOHNS  TO  J  VN 


A  Moller  pipe  organ  was  installed  and  dedicated  on  October  i, 
191 1.  Practically  the  entire  cost  of  the  organ  was  paid  within 
the  short  space  of  two  years.  The  cost  of  the  organ  was  $2,600, 
Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  donating  one-half  the  cost. 

The  Young  Ladies'  Missionary  Society  was  organized  on 
October  23,  191 1.  It  continues  as  one  of  the  flourishing  organiza- 
tions of  the  church.    Rev.  Rose  left  a  membership  of  450. 

The  present  pastor  of  the  church  is  the  Rev.  Sanford  N.  Car- 
penter, D.D.,  who  took  charge  on  November  6,  1913,  coming  to 
this  field  of  labor  from  Carthage,  111. 

The  first  "Every  Member  Canvass"  was  conducted  on  March 
29,  1914.  It  resulted  in  a  substantial  increase  in  the  offerings  for 
current  expenses  and  benevolence.  Since  the  above  date  the 
duplex  envelope  system  has  been  installed  and  the  "canvass"  is  a 
regular  feature  of  the  church  work. 

The  congregation  set  to  work  to  remove  the  last  vestige  of  the 
old  debt  which  they  had  gradually  reduced  during  the  years  of 
struggle  preceding  the  year  1914.  At  a  grand  "Cash  Rally,"  held 
on  June  4,  19 14,  cash  offerings  to  the  amount  of  $3,300  were 
brought  in.  This  was  more  than  enough  to  pay  off  the  remain- 
ing indebtedness  of  $3,100.  The  removal  of  this  old  obstruction 
proved,  indeed,  a  case  of  "Barriers  Burned  Away"  for  Trinity 
Lutheran  Church  as  it  enabled  the  congregation  to  go  ahead  with 
its  plans  for  the  very  necessary  improvement  and  enlargement 
of  the  church  building.  At  a  congregational  meeting,  held  June 
25,  1914,  the  church  council  was  authorized  to  proceed  with  the 
repair  of  the  church.  The  following  were  the  members  of  the 
building  committee :  F.  B.  Kinzey,  chairman ;  David  Ott,  R.  W. 
Horner,  C.  S.  Boyts,  S.  C.  Ream,  R.  O.  Miller,  Edgar  Bantly,. 
Lewis  Shirey,  S.  N.  Carpenter,  D.D.,  C.  E.  Frank,  H.  L.  Bolden, 
Sem  Kauffman,  August  Ohlson  and  J.  R.  Crissey.  The  repairs 
consisted  of  the  excavation  and  furnishing  of  the  unimproved 
part  of  the  basement.  A  steam  heating  plant  was  installed,  the 
auditorium  was  enlarged  by  the  removal  of  the  former  "Lecture 
Room"  partition.  The  church  was  refrescoed,  relighted  and 
furnished  with  new  pews  and  carpet,  with  hardwood  floors  and 
new  chancel  furniture.  Extensive  repairs  were  also  made  to  the 
outside  walls,  roof  and  tower.  The  cost  of  these  improvements 
was  $8,000.    During  the  summer  of  191 5.  an  additional  room  for 

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the  Beginners'  Department  was  provided  at  an  expense  of  $1,000. 
For  the  payment  of  these  and  other  obligations  the  congregation 
has  consistently  followed  the  cash  system  of  giving  without 
soliciting  subscriptions.  By  means  of  the  system  of  cash  rallies 
the  congregation  is  free  from  debt  and  is  ready  for  aggressive 
action  along  lines  of  Missionary  endeavor. 

A  men's  brotherhood,  which  has  rendered  excellent  service  in 
all  these  enterprises,  was  organized  on  April  7,  1914.  The 
Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  reor- 
ganized December  1,  19 14.  The  Luther  League  was  reor- 
ganized on  October  18,  191 5.  The  Mission  Band  was  organized 
March  17,  1917.  The  congregation  does  the  work  of  missions 
on  the  home  field  largely  through  the  process  of  catechetical 
instruction.  The  Sunday  school  is  organized  on  a  most  efficient 
basis  and  does  excellent  work.  By  reason  of  the  harmonious 
co-operation  of  all  the  forces  of  the  church,  the  membership  has 
grown  until  there  are  now  700  communicants  and  over  800  "con- 
firmed" members.  The  church  raises  its  apportionment  for  mis- 
sionary purposes  without  difficulty  and  contributes  a  total  of  over 
$1,500  annually  for  all  benevolent  purposes.  The  contributions 
for  current  expenses  are  about  $4,000  per  year. 

The  thirtieth  anniversary  of  the  organization  of  the  church  was 
celebrated  during  the  week  of  March  14-21,  1917,  with  appro- 
priate services.  All  of  the  ex-pastors  were  present  to  participate 
and  preached  to  large  and  enthusiastic  assemblies.  There  is  a 
conviction  in  the  hearts  of  those  who  know  her  best  that  Trinity 
Church  has  just  fairly  started  on  her  great  work. 


MOXHAM  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

Johnstown,  Pa. 

Rev.  H.  C.  Michael,  D.D.,  Pastor 

After  the  Johnstown  Flood  in  1889,  this  beautiful  suburb  grew 
rapidly  due  to  the  exodus  from  the  central  part  of  the  city  as 
well  as  from  Somerset,  Bedford  and  adjacent  counties.  Many 
of  these  people  were  Lutherans  and  before  long  a  Sunday  school 
was  organized  in  Paul's  Hall.  The  first  meeting  was  held  in 
the  autumn  of  1893.  Among  those  present  were  Rev.  F.  S. 
676 


MOXHAM,  JOHNSTOWN 


Shultz,  pastor  of  Grace  Lutheran  Church ;  Rev.  W.  W.  Amick, 
pastor  of  Trinity  Lutheran  Church,  and  Rev.  W.  A.  Shipman, 
D.D.,  pastor  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church.  The  attendance  was 
about  eighty.  Mr.  S.  H.  Cauffiel  was  the  first  superintendent  of 
the  school.  Other  superintendents  were  Dr.  J.  S.  Koontz,  Samuel 
Shaffer  and  Albert  Berkey. 

A  Ladies'  Aid  Society  was  organized  in  November.  1896,  with 
the  following  officers :  President,  Mrs.  Peter  Fullmer ;  vice- 
president,  Mrs.  S.  H.  Barefoot;  secretary,  Mrs.  W.  M.  Risch ; 
treasurer,  Mrs.  J.  W.  Buchanan.  In  1897,  this  society  purchased 
the  lot  on  Coleman  Avenue  numbered  637-639.     In  1901,  a  com-- 


MOXHAM     EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    JOHNSTOWN,    PA. 


mittee  consisting  of  S.  H.  Cauffiel,  C.  E.  Walker  and  \Y.  H. 
Rietz  was  authorized  to  erect  a  church  building  upon  the  lot 
already  purchased.  This  building  was  dedicated  May  11,  1902. 
Cost  of  building  was  $2,400.  In  this  building  the  following 
Sunday  school  superintendents  officiated  in  order :  H.  E.  Shaffer, 
S.  H.  Cauffiel,  M.  D.  Conrath  and  George  H.  Klahre. 

In  1905,  Rev.  C.  E.  Smith  became  assistant  to  Dr.  Shipman, 
of  the  First  Church,  his  particular  field  being  the  Moxham 
Lutherans.  Sunday  and  mid-week  services  were  conducted  by 
Rev.  Smith. 

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In  1906,  a  basement  was  put  under  the  original  building  at  a 
cost  of  $2,700,  thus  doubling  the  capacity  for  the  school. 

A  meeting  was  held  on  April  7,  1907,  for  the  purpose  of 
organizing  a  separate  congregation.  Rev.  Smith  resigned  April 
21,  1907,  to  take  up  work  in  Camden,  N.  J.  On  May  5,  the 
organization  of  the  congregation  was  completed  with  these  offi- 
cers elected:  Elders,  \Y.  H.  Rink,  J.  J.  Shaffer,  Dr.  J.  S. 
Koontz ;  deacons,  D.  W.  Sorber,  C.  E.  Walker,  J.  W.  Buchanan. 
Rev.  H.  S.  Rhoads  was  elected  pastor  May  19,  1907.  He  was  in 
reality  the  first  pastor  of  the  congregation.  He  took  charge 
July  15.  About  125  persons  were  received  as  charter  members 
of  the  new  organization. 

In  191 1,  two  lots  on  the  corner  of  Park  Avenue  and  Ohio 
Streets  were  secured.  In  1914,  two  adjoining  lots  were  pur- 
chased, making  a  frontage  on  Park  Avenue  of  160  feet.  Ground 
was  broken  for  a  new  church  March  1,  191 5,  the  corner-stone  was 
laid  May  16,  1915,  and  the  building  dedicated  March  12,  1916. 
The  congregation  now  has  a  building  that  is  beautiful,  com- 
modious and  modern  in  all  its  appointments.  The  cost,  including 
lots,  was  about  $65,000.  The  main  auditorium  seats  about  650. 
The  Sunday  school  is  made  up  of  a  series  of  class  rooms,  the 
main  section  of  which  can  be  thrown  open  so  that  the  auditorium 
may  accommodate  1,000.  With  this  splendid  equipment  the  pros- 
pects for  the  Moxham  congregation  seem  to  be  exceptional. 

Rev.  H.  S.  Rhoads  resigned  as  pastor  to  take  effect  May  1, 
1916,  he  having  accepted  the  pastorate  at  Leipsic,  O. 

Rev.  H.  C.  Michael,  the  present  pastor,  was  elected  May  21, 
and  took  charge  July  1,  19 16. 

The  congregation  has  an  Aid  Society,  organized  1896 ;  a  Mis- 
sionary Society,  reorganized  in  1908;  a  Young  Ladies'  Mission 
Band,  organized  in  1908;  a  Christian  Endeavor  Society  and 
numerous  class  organizations.  The  Sunday  school  enrollment  is 
over  500  and  the  church  membership  450.  The  congregation  has 
furnished  to  the  Lutheran  ministry  the  Rev.  David  Shaffer. 
67, S 


GRACE,  JOHNSTOWN 


GRACE  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

Johnstown,  Pa. 

Rev.  W.  I.  Good,  Pastor 

The  original  name  of  congregation:  "The  First  Evangelical 
English  Lutheran  Church."  The  name  was  changed  to  Grace 
Lutheran  Church  on  August  i,  1898,  when  the  Borough  of 
Morrellville  became  incorporated  into  the  city  of  Johnstown. 

The  Sunday  school  was  organized  the  latter  part  of  December. 


GRACE    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    JOHNSTOWN 

1 89 1,  with  G.  R.  Stewart,  superintendent,  and  about  twenty 
members,  in  the  Garfield  School  building,  on  Garfield  Street, 
in  which  building  they  held  their  Sunday  school  for  a  short  time, 
when  they  moved  to  Anderson's  Hall,  corner  Garfield  and  Chand- 
ler Streets.  In  this  hall  the  first  preaching  services  were  held. 
Rev.  B.  B.  Collins,  traveling  secretary  for  the  Alleghany  Synod, 
preached  several  times,  after  which  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell,  of  Altoona, 
preached  for  them  regularly  every  other  Sunday  until  he  suc- 
ceeded in  organizing  the  congregation,  which  organization  was 

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effected  on  August  14,  1892,  in  Burkhart's  Hall,  with  the  fol- 
lowing officers  and  members  present : 

Charter  members :  Dr.  A.  S.  Fichtner  and  wife,  G.  R.  Stewart 
and  wife,  U.  Younkin  and  wife,  W.  H.  Marsh  and  wife,  W.  F. 
Bingell  and  wife,  J.  H.  Dye,  Jr.,  and  wife,  Mrs.  Annie  McFeat- 
ers,  Mrs.  Annie  Hill,  Mrs.  Nancy  Strayer,  Mrs.  Matilda  Bain, 
Airs.  Mary  Howard,  Mrs.  Bella  McClintock,  G.  W.  Miller  and 
wife. 

Officers :  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell,  supply  pastor ;  elder,  G.  R.  Stewart ; 
deacons,  W.  H.  Marsh  and  U.  Younkin;  secretary,  J.  H.  Dye,  Tr. ; 
treasurer,  U.  Younkin.  They  were  admitted  to  the  Alleghany 
Synod  on  September  12,  1892. 

Sunday  school  continued  to  meet  in  Anderson's  Hall  until 
destroyed  by  fire,  when  Burkhart's  Hall  became  quarters  (at  the 
foot  of  Chandler  Avenue),  until  December,  1892.  Excessive  rent 
necessitated  moving  to  Bonner's  Hall,  on  Fairfield  Avenue. 

Rev.  F.  S.  Shults,  First  Pastor 

Elected  May  7,  1893,  while  a  student  of  the  Gettysburg  Theo- 
logical Seminary.  The  call  stipulated  that  he  was  to  reside  in 
Morrellville,  and  that  "he  was  to  give  one-half  of  his  services 
to  Morrellville  and  the  other  half  to  New  Florence  and  Germany." 

Rev.  P.  G.  Bell  preached  his  last  sermon  as  supply  pastor 
June  18,  1893.  During  his  administration  the  membership  had 
increased  from  twenty  to  twenty-two,  and  the  Sunday  school 
had  grown  to  a  membership  of  forty. 

Rev.  Shultz  preached  his  first  sermon  as  pastor  on  July  2, 
1893.  The  charge  consisted  of  Morrellville,  New  Florence  and 
Germany  congregations.  Salary,  $700,  of  which  the  Home 
Mission  Board  paid  $200. 

On  April  1,  1895,  the  congregation  moved  from  Bonner's  I  Tall 
into  Cusic's  Hall,  larger  and  better  adapted,  where  both  the  con- 
gregation and  the  Sunday  school  made  more  rapid,  progress. 

July  1,  1895,  a  lot  was  purchased  for  $1,000.  August  1,  of 
the  same  year,  a  building  committee  was  appointed,  consisting  of 
W.  TT.  Marsh,  John  Esterly,  Gabriel  Fleck,  Lewis  Leckey,  Samuel 
Britcher  and  the  pastor.  On  October  1,  ground  was  broken  and 
on  June  14,  1896,  the  corner-stone  was  laid.  Rev.  Dr.  John 
Weidley,  of  Pittsburgh,  was  the  principal  speaker,  and  was 
680 


GRACE,  JOHNSTOWN 


assisted  by  Revs.  Shipman  and  Amick,  local  pastors  of  First  and 
Trinity  Churches,  respectively.  Beginning  with  November  i,  the 
congregation  worshiped  in  the  Sunday  school  room. 

Dedication :  Dedicatory  services  September  26,  1897.  Rev. 
Dr.  M.  J.  Firey,  of  Pottsville,  preached  in  the  morning.  Rev. 
Dr.  W.  A.  Shipman,  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church,  preached  in 
the  evening.  The  pastor,  Rev.  F.  S.  Shultz,  had  charge  of  the 
formal  dedicatory  service  in  the  evening.  A  week  of  special 
services  followed  by  various  visiting  pastors.  The  building  as 
completed  cost  a  little  over  $8,000.  Of  this  amount  $5,600  was 
provided  on  and  before  the  day  of  dedication. 

Charge  divided:  On  September  17,  1897,  by  the  action  of 
Alleghany  Synod  this  charge  was  divided,  Morrellville  congrega- 
tion constituting  a  separate  charge.  The  pastor,  Rev.  F.  S. 
Shultz,  received  a  salary  of  $560,  of  which  amount  the  Home 
Mission  Board  contributed  $200.  At  the  close  of  the  fifth  year  of 
this  pastorate  the  membership  of  the  congregation  had  grown 
to  130,  and  that  of  the  Sunday  school  to  235.  On  July  1,  1903, 
the  congregation  became  self-supporting,  the  pastor  receiving  a 
salary  of  $800.  November  1,  1903,  a  steam-heating  plant  was  in- 
stalled at  a  cost  of  $500.  On  May  1,  1905,  the  congregation  paid 
the  Board  of  Church  Extension  $1,000,  and  they  donated  $400, 
thus  entirely  freeing  the  church  of  debt.  Close  of  pastorate, 
December  31,  1908. 

Pastorate  of  Rev.  Edward  L.  Keller 
From  May  23,  1909,  to  February  28,  1914 

During  the  fall  of  1909  and  the  spring  of  1910,  the  debt  of 
some  $1,500,  caused  by  litigation  over  strip  of  ground — Grace 
Lutheran  Church  vs.  Gale  Heslop — was  paid  off. 

During  the  spring  of  1910,  work  was  begun  in  excavating  the 
basement  under  the  church  that  it  might  be  finished  and  used. 
This  was  completed  in  191 1  along  with  an  outside  entrance  at  a 
cost  of  about  $1,400.  These  improvements  necessitated  the 
removing  of  the  furnace  to  the  rear  of  the  church  and  changing 
the  heating  system. 

On  November  12,  191 1,  a  pipe  organ  was  dedicated.  Cost, 
$2,000,  of  which  amount  Andrew  Carnegie  donated  $750. 

A  Young  People's  Missionary  Society  was  organized  during 

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the  fall  of  191 1,  and  a  Junior  C.  E.  on  Palm  Sunday,  1912. 

At  a  special  congregational  meeting  held  April  13,  1913,  the 
church  council  was  authorized  to  purchase  the  residence  of  Mr. 
John  Esterly,  118  Sheridan  Street,  for  the  sum  of  $5,440,  the 
same  to  become  the  parsonage  of  the  church.  (The  entire  amount 
was  raised  and  paid  in  the  following  pastorate.) 

The  Sunday  school  rooms  were  refrescoed  during  August, 
1913.  Cost,  $75.  Also  new  carpet  purchased  for  these  same 
rooms  at  a  cost  of  $300. 

Pastorate  of  Re?'.  William  I.  Good 

From  May  1,  1914,  to  .     Called  March  29, 

at  a  salary  of  $1,200  and  free  use  of  parsonage. 

Parsonage  debt  paid:  On  April  15,  1917,  the  last  of  the  $5,400 
indebtedness  on  the  parsonage  was  paid.  This  sum,  representing 
the  total  cost  of  the  parsonage,  was  raised  in  little  over  a  year  by 
a  series  of  cash  rallies  and  hard  work  by  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society. 
At  the  same  time  a  balance  indebtedness  of  $200  on  the  pipe 
organ  was  paid. 

Mission  Band  was  organized  on  March  4,  19 17,  with  thirty 
members. 

Retaining  wall  was  built  around  church  lawn  in  the  summer 
of  1915  at  a  cost  of  $75. 

Remodeling  fund  was  established  on  May  13,  191 7,  by  action 
of  the  congregation  in  preparation  for  extensive  alterations  in 
interior  of  church  and  the  erection  of  a  new  parsonage  adjoining 
the  church.  (According  to  present  plans  these  improvements  will 
approximate  $12,000  in  cost.) 

H.  H.  Cupp  is  the  present  superintendent  of  the  Sunday  school. 

Young  People's  Society  of  Christian  Endeavor  organized  April 
25,  1894,  with  thirty-six  members.  First  officers:  President, 
Ben  Marsh ;  vice-president,  Frank  Howard ;  recording  secretary, 
Kate  Leckey ;  corresponding  secretary,  Annie  Bingell ;  treasurer, 
Mrs.  Amanda  Lamoreaux.  Present  officers :  President,  Fred 
Sprengel ;  vice-president,  Naomi  Bingell ;  recording  secretary, 
Sarah  Rightnour ;  corresponding  secretary,  Ethel  Shultz ;  treas- 
urer, William  Leckey.  Present  enrollment  of  members,  forty- 
two.  It  supports  a  native  worker  in  India  at  a  cost  of  $30  a 
year. 
6S2 


ST.  LUKE'S,  LILLY 


Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  organized 
October  8,  1905,  with  twenty-two  members  and  the  following 
officers:  President,  Mrs.  F.  S.  Shultz ;  vice-president,  Mrs. 
Tillie  Fichtner ;  recording  secretary,  Mrs.  C.  A.  Marsh ;  corre- 
sponding secretary,  Miss  Lillian  Clark ;  treasurer,  Mrs.  G.  W. 
Butler.  Present  membership,  thirty-eight,  and  the  following  offi- 
cers :  President,  Mrs.  Geary  W.  Shultz ;  vice-president,  Miss 
Lillian  Clark ;  recording  secretary.  Miss  Ethel  Shultz ;  corre- 
sponding secretary,  Miss  Annie  Fleck ;  treasurer,  Mrs.  William 
Haddle. 

Young  People's  Missionary  Society  organized  in  the  fall  of 
191 1.  Present  membership,  eighteen,  and  the  following  officers: 
President,  Naomi  Bingell;  vice-president,  Mrs.  William  I.  Good; 
recording  secretary,  Sarah  Rightnour;  corresponding  secretary, 
Mary  Croft ;  treasurer,  Kathryn  Danker. 


ST.  LUKE'S  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

Lilly,  Pa. 

Rev.  H.  IV.  Bender,  Pastor 

The  history  of  Lutheranism  in  the  community  (known  in  its 
early  days  by  the  name  of  Hemlock)  dates  from  about  the  year 
1850.  Among  the  early  settlers  who  came  to  this  section  were 
several  Lutheran  families,  and  in  the  year  1854,  the  Lutherans, 
Methodists  and  United  Brethren,  constituting  the  Protestant  ele- 
ment in  the  community,  joined  hands  in  the  erection  of  a  union 
house  of  worship,  which,  up  to  the  time  a  church  edifice  was 
erected  by  the  Lutherans  alone,  served  as  the  only  house  of 
worship  in  the  community. 

In  these  early  days  neighboring  Lutheran  pastors  came  to  the 
community  at  intervals,  and  ministered  to  the  few  families  of 
the  Lutheran  faith,  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman,  among  others,  supplying 
from  1 858- 1 860. 

But  the  St.  Luke's  Lutheran  congregation  of  Lilly,  Pa.,  was 
organized  June  22,  1873,  by  the  Rev.  S.  Croft,  and  became  a 
part  of  the  Wilmore  pastorate,  and  this  relation  was  sustained 
until  the  year  1889,  when  St.  Luke's  was  made  a  separate 
pastorate. 

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The  organization  was  effected  by  the  adoption  of  a  constitu- 
tion signed  by  eighteen  members,  viz. :  Philip  Pritsch,  Charles 
Studt,  Fredrick  Veigle,  Miss  Anna  B.  Pritsch,  Mrs.  Dorothy  L. 
Pritsch,  Mrs.  Mary  Smith,  Henry  Ehrenfeldt,  Michael  Ehren- 
feldt,  Mrs.  Louisa  Ehrenfeldt,  Mrs.  E.  McCreary,  John  Warner, 
Mrs.  Margaret  Warner,  John  C.  Warner,  Mrs.  Barbara  Studt, 
Jacob  Leap,  Miss  Dortha  Pritsch,  Adam  Miller,  Mrs.  Catharine 
Helsel. 

The  following  constituted  the  first  council :  Charles  Studt,  two 
years,  and  Adam  Miller,  three  years,  as  elders;  Frederick  Veigle, 


ST.    LUKE  S    CHURCH    AND    PARSONAGE,    LILLY,    PA. 


two  years,  and  Philip  Pritsch,  three  years,  as  deacons. 

In  the  latter  part  of  the  year  1881,  work  was  begun  on  the 
first  Lutheran  church  edifice  which  was  not  completed,  however, 
until  the  following  year.  It  was  located  on  Main  Street,  and  the 
building  was  a  frame  structure,  32  by  50  feet,  and  in  height,  16 
feet  to  the  square.  The  cost  was  $1,200,  one-third  of  which  was 
secured  on  the  day  of  dedication. 

The  service  of  dedication  was  held  November  5,  1882,  and 
the  pastor,  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,  was  assisted  by  the  Rev.  M.  G. 
684 


ST.  LUKE'S,  LILLY 


Boyer,  president  of  Synod. 

The  congregation  at  this  time  consisted  of  about  forty  com- 
municant members,  and  the  following  comprised  the  church 
council:  George  Schwaderer,  Charles  Studt,  Philip  Pritsch  and 
Thomas  McCreary. 

In  the  year  1889,  the  congregation,  numbering  about  sixty 
communicant  members,  by  due  process  of  Synodical  action, 
became  a  separate  pastorate  and  called  a  pastor  that  same  year. 

The  first  parsonage  was  erected  in  the  year  1892,  located  on 
Portage  Street.  It  was  a  frame  building  containing  ten  rooms 
and  furnace  and  cost  $2,200.     The  council,  Rev.  O.  F.  Harsh- 


J.    F.    KLEMSTINE,   LILLY    PASTORATE 
A     member    of    the    congregation    since    1 88^.       Prominent     in     the     building 
operations    of     the    congregation;  also     a    member    of    the     Council    twenty 
years 

man,  pastor ;  Charles  Studt  and  Daniel  Diehl,  elders ;  M.  K.  Piper, 
Luther  Miller,  George  Diehl  and  Joshua  Aurandt,  deacons,  con- 
stituted the  building  committee. 

Act  of  incorporation:  On  December  12,  1901,  application  was 
made  to  the  court  of  Cambria  County,  Pa.,  for  a  charter.  The 
application  was  confirmed  March  5,  1902,  and  on  September  16, 
1902,  the  final  requirement  having  been  complied  with,  the  con- 
gregation became  an  incorporated  body.  The  application  for  said 
charter  contains  the  signatures  of  the  Rev.  G.  F.  Snyder,  pastor; 

685 


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M.  K.  Piper,  Joshua  Aurandt,  Charles  Studt,  Julius  F.  Klemstine, 
Luther  Miller  and  David  L.  Diehl  as  comprising  the  church 
council  at  the  time. 

The  second  and  present  church  building  was  erected  in  the 
years  1904  and  1905.  It  is  86  by  46  feet,  constructed  of  concrete 
blocks,  contains  memorial  windows  of  a  beautiful  and  artistic 
type,  tower  clock,  etc.  The  original  cost  was  $15,000,  and  in 
every  respect  it  is  a  modern  up-to-date  house  of  worship,  a  credit 
to  the  congregation  and  community.  The  corner-stone  was  laid 
on  September  4,  1904,  and  on  June  18,  1905,  the  building  was 
dedicated  to  the  worship  of  the  Triune  God.     The  pastor,  the 


LUTHER    MILLER,   LILLY    PASTORATE 

A  son  of  one  of  the  original  members  and  a  member  of  the  congregation  since  1880. 
Twenty-four  years  a  member  of  the  Council.  Nineteen  years  Superintendent  of 
the  Sunday   school. 

Rev.  J.  A.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  was  assisted  in  the  dedicatory  services 
by  the  following  visiting  ministers :  Rev.  \Y.  A.  Shipman,  D.D., 
Rev.  J.  W.  PofTenberger,  Rev.  P.  G.  Bergaman,  Rev.  I.  P. 
Hawkins  and  Rev.  G.  F.  Snyder. 

The  council  at  this  time  consisted  of  the  pastor,  M.  K.  Piper, 
Charles  Studt,  elders;  Luther  Miller,  Julius  F.  Klemstine,  D.  L. 
Diehl  and  Joshua  Aurandt,  deacons,  and  the  building  committee 
of  the  church  council,  together  with  George  Forsythe,  James 
Forsythe  and  B.  E.  Shears. 
686 


ST.  LUKE'S,  LILLY 


In  the  year  1910,  the  second  and  present  parsonage  was 
erected.  It  is  constructed  of  brick,  contains  eleven  rooms  and 
finished  attic,  hot  water  heating  system,  electric  light,  wide 
veranda  around  two  sides,  cement  walks,  etc.  In  plan  and 
structure  it  is  all  that  any  pastor  could  desire  in  the  way  of  a 
parsonage.  The  first  cost  was  $3,300,  but  this  does  not  include 
the  improvements  and  additions  made  since  its  erection.  The 
council  in  office  at  the  time  constituted  the  building  committee : 
Rev.  J.  A.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  pastor ;  M.  K.  Piper  and  Luther  Miller, 
elders ;  Julius  F.  Klemstine,  Charles  A.  Edwards,  Joshua  Aurandt 
and  David  L.  Diehl,  deacons. 

The  present  equipment   of  buildings   includes   a  garage   also, 


JOSHUA    AURANDT,    LILLY    PASTORATE 

A    member    of    the    congregation    since    1885.     Twenty-four    years    a    member    of    the 
Council,     twenty-nine  years  a  teacher  in  the   Sunday  school. 

which  was  erected  summer  of  1914.  It  is  constructed  of  brick 
covered  with  asbestos  roofing.  The  building  is  243^  by  12  feet, 
and  10  feet  to  the  square.     Cost,  $500. 

As  near  as  can  be  ascertained  the  following  is  a  roster  of  the 
pastors  serving  the  congregation  from  the  date  of  its  organiza- 
tion to  the  present : 

1.  Pastors  serving  the  congregation  as  a  part  of  the  YVilmore 
charge:     Rev.  S.  Croft,  May  11,  1873,  to  1874;  Rev.  J.  J.  Kerr, 

to  1881 ;  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,  March,  1882,  to  June,  1883;  Rev. 

P.  G.  Bell,  1884  to  1886;  Rev.  J.  N.  Unruh,  November,  1886,  to 
November,  1888. 

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2.  Pastors  who  served  the  congregation  after  it  became  a 
separate  charge  in  1889:  Rev.  Shile  Miller,  August  1,  1889,  to 
January  1,  1891 ;  Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman,  June  1,  1891,  to  Novem- 
ber 22,  1892;  Rev.  I.  P.  Hawkins,  March  15,  1893,  to  March  1, 
1898;  Rev.  P.  E.  Bergeman,  June  1,  1898,  to  February  25,  1900; 
Rev.  G.  F.  Snyder,  July  8,  1900,  to  October  1,  1903;  Rev.  J.  A. 
Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  November  15,  1903,  to  November  15,  1910;  Rev. 
P.  H.  Miller,  D.D.,  January  27,  1911,  to  June  2,  1912;  Rev. 
Paul  H.  Ketterman,  July  14,  1912,  to  November  30,  1913;  Rev. 
H.  W.  Bender,  May  1,  1914  — . 

The  several  organizations  within  the  congregation  consist  of  a 
Sunday  school,  Ladies'  Aid  Society,  Lutheran  Brotherhood  and  a 
company  of  the  United  Boys'  Brigade. 

The  history  of  the  Sunday  school  dates  from  fall  of  1878, 
up  to  which  time  for  some  years  previous  the  Lutherans  of  the 
community  had  joined  in  with  a  union  school.  In  the  fall  of  1878, 
however,  the  Lutherans  decided  to  have  their  own  school  and 
forthwith  one  was  organized,  the  Veigles,  Pritschs,  Ehrenfeldts, 
Studts,  Millers,  Martzs,  Georges,  McCrearys,  Felkers  taking  an 
active  part  therein.  The  number  of  scholars  enrolled  was  about 
fifty.  At  the  time  of  the  organization  the  following  officers  were 
elected :  W.  H.  Brady,  superintendent ;  Zachariah  George,  Sr., 
secretary ;  Philip  Pritsch,  treasurer. 

Since  the  organization  the  office  of  superintendent  has  been 
filled  by  Charles  Studt,  Philip  Pritsch,  Nicolas  Evens,  Joshua 
Aurandt,  Luther  Miller,  George  Forsythe,  Sr.,  Henry  Shaules 
and  Charles  A.  Edwards. 

The  organization  of  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society  dates  from  the 
year  1898,  when  the  society  was  organized  with  about  twelve 
members.  Officers  at  the  time  of  organization:  Mrs.  Minnie 
Krebbs,  president;  Mrs.  George  Forsythe,  Jr.,  secretary;  and 
Mrs.  Sherman  Allen,  Treasurer. 

Others  who  have  served  the  society  one  or  more  terms  as 
president  are  the  following:  Mrs.  M.  K.  Piper,  Mrs.  Sallie 
Hughes,  Mrs.  George  Forsythe,  Jr.,  Mrs.  James  Forsythe,  Mrs. 
B.  E.  Shears,  Mrs.  Josiah  Zimmerman  and  Mrs.  Joshua  Aurandt. 

The    Lutheran    Brotherhood    and    the    local    company    of    the 
United  Boys'  Brigade  have  been  organized  during  the  present 
pastorate. 
688 


ST.  LUKE'S,  LILLY 


The  Brotherhood  was  organized,  November  22,  19 14,  with 
fifteen  charter  members — James  For sy the,  president;  E.  R.  Lan- 
gil,  vice-president;  Howard  Veigel,  recording  secretary;  W.  L. 
Piper,  corresponding  secretary ;  John  Sample,  treasurer. 

The  local  company  of  the  United  Boys'  Brigade  was  organ- 
ized May  2,  1916,  with  sixteen  charter  members,  the  boys  of  the 
company  ranging  in  age  from  ten  to  seventeen  years.  The  fol- 
lowing is  the  official  roster :  Commandant  and  chaplain,  Rev. 
H.  W.  Bender;  captain,  James  K.  George;  first  lieutenant  and 
secretary,  Arthur  H.  Mussleman;  corporals,  Dervin  Walters  and 
George  Dewey  Felker ;  treasurer,  James  Forsythe,  Jr. 

The  congregation  deserves  much  credit  for  what  it  has  accom- 
plished in  the  years  past,  despite  difficult  and  peculiar  circum- 
stances. At  the  present  time  the  congregation  possesses  a  church 
plant  worth.  $30,000  at  the  lowest  calculation,  with  no  debt  except 
several  hundred  dollars  for  recent  improvements.  Moreover, 
whilst  providing  for  the  needs  at  home  and  for  their  own  com- 
fort, the  membership  has  not  neglected  the  needs  of  the  Church 
at  large.  In  the  matter  of  benevolence  it  is  known  as  one  of  the 
banner  congregations  in  our  Synod,  providing  for  the  apportion- 
ment in  full  from  year  to  year,  and  usually  with  an  excess.  Nor 
does  it  show  any  signs  of  abatement  in 'this  good  work.  The 
last  Synodical  report  was,  in  many  respects,  the  best  in  its  his- 
tory, particularly  so  in  the  matter  of  benevolence,  taking  the 
first  place  in  the  Synod  with  a  credit  of  $3.28  per  communicant 
member  paid  on  the  apportionment,  or  an  excess  of  $1.35  per 
communicant  member. 

In  common  with  all  congregations,  St.  Luke's  of  Lilly  has 
given  of  her  sons  and  daughters  to  the  Church  at  large.  She  has 
also  contributed  one  pastor,  the  Rev.  C.  E.  Butler,  and  the  wife 
of  a  pastor,  Mrs.  Rev.  J.  W.  McCauley,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
M.  K.  Piper. 

In  the  work  accomplished  by  the  congregation  in  the  years 
past,  special  mention  should  be  made  of  the  services  rendered 
by  the  Sunday  school  and  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society. 

The  Sunday  school  has  furnished  a  field  of  Christian  training 
and  activity  for  a  large  number  of  adults  in  the  capacity  of 
officers  and  teachers.  In  it  the  children  of  the  congregation  have 
been  taught  the  word  of  God  and  from  it  the  church  has  drawn 

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its  communicant  membership,  in  a  large  measure,  from  year  to 
year. 

The  Ladies'  Aid  Society  has  been  from  its  organization  a  most 
active  and  helpful  arm  of  the  church.  At  the  time  the  society 
was  organized,  in  1898,  there  was  a  debt  of  $900  on  the  first 
parsonage,  and  the  society  at  once  set  to  work  in  an  effort  to 
cancel  the  obligation  and  in  due  process  of  time  accomplished 
the  work  taken  in  hand. 

When  the  erection  of  the  present  church  edifice  was  deter- 
mined upon,  the  society  assumed  the  cost  of  the  lot  ($1,500), 
and  one  of  the  large  memorial  windows  at  a  cost  of  $180.     And 


MRS.    M.    K.    PIPER   AND   DAUGHTER   PEARL,  LILLY,   PA. 
Mr.   and  Mrs.   M.   K.   Piper,   members  since    1888,  are  both   alike   active   and  prominent 
in  its  affairs.     The  above  picture  was  taken  prior  to  the  marriage   of  their  daughter 
to  the  Rev.   J.   Wm.   McCauley,   Salem,   Va. 

later,  when  the  church  was  dedicated,  the  society  pledged  $1,000. 
When  these  pledges  had  been  fulfilled,  there  were  unpaid  sub- 
scriptions to  the  amount  of  $826.67,  and  this  additional  amount 
the  society  assumed  and  paid  over  to  the  treasurer  of  the  church. 
Recently — fall  of  1915 — the  society  concluded  to  carry  out  an 
ambition  of  years'  standing,  i.e.,  the  erection  of  a  neat,  substan- 
tial rustic  stone  fence  about  the  church  property;  and  although 
the  work  was  begun  with  less  than  $200  in  the  treasury,  and 
completed  at  a  cost  of  $900,  there  is  at  the  present  time  less  than 
$100  to  be  provided  for.  Moreover,  at  the  same  time  this  work 
was  in  progress,  the  society  contributed  to  the  fitting  up  of  a 
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room  in  the  basement  of  the  church,  an  amount  equal  to  the  sum 
of  their  indebtedness  at  the  present  time  on  their  original  under- 
taking. 

PRESENT    MEMBERSHIP,    INNER   ORGANIZATIONS,    OFFICIAL 
DIRECTORY,  ETC.,  MAY   I,  I917 

At  the  present  time  the  congregation  consists  of  125  communi- 
cant, 165  confirmed,  and  230  baptized  members.  Personnel  of 
Church  Council:  Pastor,  Rev.  H.  W.  Bender;  Elders,  Thomas 
W.  Hanna,  B.  E.  Shears,  E.  R.  Langil;  Deacons,  James  For- 
sythe,  Sr.,  James  K.  George,  Charles  A.  Edwards,  (Charles  A. 
Edwards,  Secretary,  and  E.  R.  Langil,  Treasurer). 

The  Sunday  school  has  a  total  membership  of  222  in  the  vari- 
ous departments.  General  and  Assistant  Superintendents,  W. 
H.  Brady  and  B.  E.  Shears ;  Secretary,  Miss  Mabel  Appleyard ; 
Treasurer,  Mrs.  L.  M.  Piper ;  Organists,  Mrs.  H.  W.  Bender  and 
Mrs.  B.  E.  Shears ;  Librarians,  Miss  Anna  Hanna,  Miss  Mabel 
Diehl,  James  Forsythe,  Jr. ;  Superintendent  Primary  Department, 
W.  L.  Piper ;  Superintendent  Home  Department,  Mrs.  Carl 
Shaules ;  Superintendent  Cradle  Roll,  Mrs.  M.  K.  Piper ;  teachers 
in  the  Main  Department,  E.  R.  Langil,  Luther  Miller,  M.  K. 
Piper,  Mrs.  L.  M.  Piper,  James  K.  George,  Dervin  Walters,  Mrs. 
H.  W.  Bender,  Miss  Ida  L.  Klemstine ;  teachers  in  the  Primary 
Department,  W.  L.  Piper,  Mrs.  B.  E.  Shears,  Mrs.  M.  K.  Piper. 

The  present  membership  of  the  Ladies'  Aid  Society  numbers 
thirty-eight,  and  the  officers :  President,  Mrs.  H.  W.  Bender ; 
Vice-President,  Mrs.  Carl  Shaules ;  Secretary,  Mrs.  William  F. 
Shaules ;  Assistant  Secretary,  Mrs.  J.  D.  Sample ;  Treasurer, 
Mrs.  James  Forsythe. 

LAVANSVILLE  PASTORATE 
Rev.  H.  M.  Pctrca,  Pastor 
This  charge  consists  of  two  churches :  Mt.  Calvary,  at  Lavans- 
ville,  and  Mt.  Zion,  at  Bakersville,  four  miles  apart. 

Mt.  Calvary  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
This  congregation  was  an  outgrowth  from  the  Samuel's  Ger- 
man Reformed  and  Lutheran  Union  Church,  one  mile  distant, 
because  of  a  disagreement  of  the  members  as  to  the  manner  and 

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mode  of  conducting"  special  religious  services. 

Rev.  Peter  Rizer,  of  Somerset,  was  pastor.  He  was  favorable 
to  the  mourners'  bench  method  in  use  at  the  time.  It  seems  that 
during  a  revival  here  some  of  the  members  disapproved  of  this 
method  and  under  the  leadership  of  Mr.  George  Flick  locked 
the  church.  Mr.  David  Woy  was  the  leader  of  the  revival  party, 
and  with  him  most  of  the  members  withdrew  and  built  the  church 
here,  Mr.  Woy  giving  the  ground.  The  remainder  of  the  con- 
gregation at  Samuel's  was  now  left  without  pastoral  care  until 
the  organization  of  the  General  Council.     The  effort  of  Pastor 


M.VARY    CHURCH     AND    PARSONAGE,    LAVANSVILLE,    PA. 


Hentz,  of  Somerset,  to  build  up  a  pastorate  of  congregations 
which  would  go  with  him  into  this  new  body,  caused  the  Rev. 
YVinecoff,  pastor  here,  to  reorganize  a  Lutheran  congregation  at 
Samuel's  in  1872,  the  Reformed  people  having  also  withdrawn 
and  built  in  Lavansville. 

The  congregation  was  organized  in  1846,  the  charter  members 
being  members  from  the  Samuel's  Union  Church,  and  the  old 
church  edifice  built  in  1846  and  1847,  Rev.  Rizer  pastor. 

The  charter  members  of  the  Lavansville  congregation  were 
David  Woy,  Daniel  Adams,  David  Miller,  Christian  Barkley, 
George  Barkley,  Samuel  Barkley.  Jonathan  Flick,  Samuel 
Kooser.  Isaac  Flick,  Joe  Barkley,  ( ieorge  Barkley,  Jr..  Joseph 
692 


MT.  CALVARY 


Young.  Daniel  Beatty  built  the  church,  aided  by  Chauncey 
Berkey.     It  cost  about  $2,000.     It  was  a  one-room  building. 

Rev.  William  Uhl  served  this  charge  from  1848  to  1852;  Rev. 
A.  Babb,  from  1852  to  1856;  Rev.  Charles  Witmer,  1857  to  1859 ; 
Rev.  G.  M.  Pile,  from  January  1,  i860,  to  September  1,  1861 ; 
Rev.  Leonhard  Gerhardt,  from  October  1,  1861,  to  April  1,  1866; 
Rev.  J.  P.  Hentz,  from  July  1,  1866,  to  April  r,  1871.  All  of 
these  pastors  served  this  congregation  as  a  part  of  the  Somerset 
charge. 

In  1870  Rev.  Hentz  attempted  to  take  the  Lavansville  and 
Bakersville  congregations,  with  Somerset,  into  the  General  Coun- 
cil, but  failed,  and  then  resigned  the  Somerset  charge ;  after 
which  the  Lavansville  charge  was  formed,  in  1872.  April  1,  1872, 
Rev.  J.  Winecoff  took  charge  of  the  new  pastorate,  but  only 
served  a  short  time  on  account  of  ill  health.  He  resigned  on 
June  23,  1873,  and  died  July  6  of  same  year. 

Rev.  David  Earhart  served  the  charge  from  July  13,  1873,  to 
July  13,  1876;  Rev.  L.  L.  Seiber,  from  September  1,  1876,  to 
September  1,  1882;  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman,  from  October  1,  1882, 
to  October  1,  1885;  Rev.  W.  L.  Remsberg,  from  March  1,  1886, 
to  September  1,  1886;  Rev.  E.  Manges  began  his  work  on  this 
charge  in  September,  1886,  and  in  1888  the  old  church  edifice 
was  torn  down.  Joseph  Young  and  Edward  Berkey  served  as 
sextons  in  the  old  church  for  many  years. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  new  or  present  building  was  laid  by 
Pastor  Manges,  on  September  30,  the  same  year.  The  new 
church  was  not  formally  opened  till  March  8,  1890.  The  old 
church  was  a  brick  building,  and  the  present  church  is  also  brick, 
42  by  75  feet.     The  style  of  the  church  is  Gothic. 

Rev.  Manges  resigned  the  charge  October  1,  1892.  The  pas- 
torate was  without  regular  services  until  May  18,  1893,  when 
Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart  accepted  the  call  as  pastor  and  served  it  suc- 
cessfully for  a  number  of  years,  after  which  he  resigned,  Decem- 
ber 30,  1903.  During  his  service  the  Christian  Endeavor  Society 
was  organized.  Again  for  six  months  it  was  without  regular 
pastoral  care. 

June  1,  1904,  Rev.  S.  A.  Zimbeck  took  charge  of  the  work, 
pleasantly  serving  until  December  1,  1909,  when  he  resigned. 

On  January  1,  1910,  Rev.  H.  M.  Petrea  entered  the  field  as 

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pastor.  Thus  we  have  a  complete  list  of  the  former  pastors  of 
this  church.  Many  of  them  have  gone  to  their  reward,  while 
still  a  goodly  number  are  preaching  the  same  Christ  and  His 
gospel.  Of  the  Sunday  school  superintendents,  Isaac  Ankeny, 
Jacob  Baker  and  Conrad  Shultz  have  served  long  terms.  It  has 
furnished  for  the  Lutheran  ministry  Revs.  H.  H.  Flick,  Sr. 
and  Jr. 

This  congregation,  once  strong  and  vigorous,  has  weakened 
somewhat  numerically.  Human  material  has  centralized  else- 
where ;  and  some  people  are  like  the  evergreen  tree,  while  others 
are  like  the  oak  and  chestnut.  Faithfully  has  the  Word  been 
preached  during  all  these  years,  and  catechetical  instructions 
have  been  employed  for  the  development  of  the  congregation 
numerically  and  spiritually. 

Mt.  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
bakersville,  pa. 

The  first  records  of  Mt.  Zion  Lutheran  Church  of  Bakers- 
ville  dates  from  the  year  1839,  when  baptism  was  administered 
at  Lohr's  schoolhouse,  locally  known  as  the  "Red  Schoolhouse," 
where  Jacob  Beck  now  lives.  The  pastor  is  not  known,  but  doubt- 
less was  of  the  Reformed  Church. 

Father  Heyer  about  this  time  began  to  preach  at  the  same  place 
for  the  Lutherans.  The  first  formal  organization  was  effected 
with  forty  members,  largely  members  of  the  Samuel's  congre- 
gation, by  Rev.  P.  Rizer,  pastor  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  of  Somerset,  on  July  31,  1842.  The  first  officers  of  the 
church,  known  as  the  "Laurel  Hill"  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  were:  Elders,  Jacob  Lenhart  and  George  Mull;  dea- 
cons, David  Lohr  and  John  Baker.  The  first  communion  was 
held  August  8,  1843,  and  the  officers  installed  September  25,  1842. 

Rev.  Rizer  preached  and  administered  the  sacrament  for  these 
people  at  Lohr's  schoolhouse  till  April  24,  1847.  Rev.  William 
Uhl  was  his  successor,  and  on  October  18,  1848,  reorganized  the 
congregation  and  adopted  a  constitution,  in  accordance  with  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Church. 

The  corner-stone  for  the  building  was  laid  April  20,  1849,  and 
the  edifice  dedicated  November  4,  1849,  by  Rev.  Uhl. 
694 


MT.  Z10N,  BAKERSVILLE 


The  church  was  built  at  Bakersville  and  name  changed  from 
"Laurel  Hill"  to  Mt.  Zion. 

The  pastors  of  the  congregation  began  their  labors  at  the  fol- 
lowing dates:  Rev.  William  Uhl,  1847;  Rev.  A.  Babb,  1852; 
Rev.  Witmer,  1857;  Rev.  G.  M.  Pile,  i860;  Rev.  L.  Gerhardt, 
1861 ;  Rev.  J.  P.  Hentz,  1866.  Rev.  Hentz  was  the  last  of  the 
Somerset  pastors,  the  congregation  being  a  part  of  the  Lavans- 
ville-Bakersville  charge  since.  Rev.  Winecoff,  1872 ;  Rev.  D. 
Earhart,  1873;  Rev-  Sieber,  1876;  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman,  1882; 
Rev.   Remsberg,    1886;   Rev.   E.   Manges,    1886;   Rev.   Gephart. 


MT.    ZION,    BAKERSVILLE,    PA. 

1893;  Rev-  S.  A.  Zimbeck,  1904;  Rev.  Petrea,  1910.  At  present 
there  are  255  members  in  congregation. 

The  Sunday  school  was  organized  at  time  of  organization  of 
the  church  and  has  grown  and  prospered  in  proportion  with 
growth  of  church.  The  membership  of  school,  with  all  its 
departments,  exceeds  that  of  the  church. 

In  the  year  1886,  under  Rev.  Remsberg,  this  congregation 
organized  a  Christian  Endeavor  Society,  which  was  one  of  the 
first  in  the  Alleghany  Synod.     This  society  at  present  has  nearly 

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ioo  members  and  the  society,  with  the  Sunday  school,  are  great 
helpers  of  the  church. 

The  officers  of  the  church  at  present  are :  Elders,  Samuel 
Friedline,  W.  H.  H.  Knupp,  W.  B.  Putman;  Deacons,  W.  H. 
Bruner,  Josiah  Beck,  James  Friedline. 

We  have  now  a  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary 
Society,  also  a  Young  People's  Mission  Band. 

The  following  ministers  were  sent  out  from  this  congrega- 
tion :  Rev.  Charles  Jacobs,  Rev.  Shile  Miller,  Rev.  Charles 
Baker,  Rev.  S.  A.  Shaulis,  Rev.  Charles  Brugh  (Reformed), 
Rev.  H.  A.  Brugh. 

Two  young  men,  Dwight  Putman  and  Samuel  Shaulis,  Jr.,  are 
now  in  preparation  for  the  ministry. 

This  little  congregation,  backed  by  men  and  women  of  great 
faith  and  energy,  and  upheld  by  higher  power  and  influence,  had 
grown  and  prospered  until  their  little  church  was  not  large 
enough.  So  their  first  church  edifice  was  torn  down,  and  in 
1905,  on  February  14,  they  laid  the  corner-stone  for  the  new  or 
present  building,  and  formally  dedicated  it  to  the  worship  and 
service  of  the  true  God  on  July  4,  1905,  their  former  pastor, 
Rev.  C.  F.  Gephart,  preaching  the  dedicatory  sermon. 

It  is  a  beautiful  little  church  of  frame  structure,  and  these 
good  people  can  justly  feel  proud  of  results  from  efforts  put  forth 
in  earnestness. 

This  congregation  is  a  fairly  strong  one  in  numbers,  but  may 
be  denoted  a  "Hercules"  in  working  power.  Their  grandparents 
and  parents  before  them  have  left  them  a  spirit  of  activity  in 
God's  service ;  and  to-day,  few  schools  of  God's  word  bear  a 
better  record  per  membership. 

This  charge  has  successfully  withstood  satan  for  about  seventy- 
five  years,  and  no  man  can  tell  what  has  been  done  for  God.  Time 
alone  can  efface  it  and  bring  its  labors  to  an  end. 


MT.  ZION  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

MEYERSDALE,    PA. 

Rev.  J.  Luther  Fronts,  Pastor 
Early  in  185 1,  Rev.  Elias  Fair,  of  Berlin,  began  holding  serv- 
ices here  in  the  "Red  Schoolhouse,"  on  the  High  School  grounds, 
696 


AIT.   Z10N,   MEYERSDALE 


and  organized  a  Lutheran  congregation.  Later  the  lot  on  North 
Main  Street  was  purchased  jointly  by  the  Lutheran  and  Re- 
formed people,  for  $125,  the  deed  received  November  11,  1854, 
and  the  union  church  which  had  been  erected,  dedicated  (perhaps 
September  3,  1854),  with  the  name  of  Amity.  The  building 
committee  consisted  of  Levi  Heckart,  John  Bowers,  Frederick 
Measman,  Adolphus  Just,  Conrad  M.  Hicks.  The  following 
persons  were  members :  Joseph  Keim,  Peter  Kessler,  Catharine 
dinger,  Margaret  Shultz,  Mary  A.  Albright,  John  J.  Hicks, 
Catharine  Geary,  Catharine  Walker,  Elizabeth  Keim,  Frederick 


ZION    EVANGELICAL   LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    MEYERSDALE 


Smearman,  Alexander  Walker,  Christopher  Shiver,  Catharine 
Herring,  Wilhelmina  Smearman,  Miss  Harriet  Hicks,  Miss  Bar- 
bara Yorty,  Miss  Mary  E.  Yorty. 

The  building  was  a  single  story,  frame,  40  by  30  feet,  with 
belfry,  bell  and  spire,  and  cost  about  $2,800.  Considerable  funds 
were  secured  in  Baltimore  by  Conrad  Hicks.  For  more  than 
twenty  years  this  building  was  used  on  alternate  Sundays  by  the 
Lutheran  and  Reformed  congregations.  In  1857,  Mr.  Simon 
Bittner,  a  Lutheran,  was  elected  a  deacon  by  the  joint  vote  of 
both;  pastors  were  supported  also  conjointly,  without  reference 
to  creed,  evidences  of  amity  in  more  than  name.  This  building 
is  now  a  private  residence. 

October  28,  1865;  Rev.  John  Forthman  reorganized  the  Luther- 

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ans  under  the  name  of  St.  James'  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church, 
which  was  as  such  received  into  Synod.  The  first  report  to 
Synod  ( 1866)  shows  twenty  communicants,  forty  Sunday  school 
scholars  and  eight  teachers.  At  the  first  communion,  held  Octo- 
her  29,  1865,  the  following  communed :  Joseph  Keim,  Joseph 
Baldwin,  Lucinda  Baldwin,  Alexander  Walker,  Peter  Gumbert, 
John  Smith,  William  Smith,  Lydia  Keim,  Dinah  Enos,  Catharine 
dinger,  Catharine  Walker,  Mary  Miller,  Catharine  Geary, 
A.  Altmiller,  Eliza  Finefrock,  Harriet  Staub,  Catharine  Shunk. 
The  following  council  was  chosen  the  same  day :  Elders,  Joseph 
Baldwin,  Alexander  Walker ;  deacons,  Joseph  Keim,  Joseph  Bald- 
win ;  trustees,  Joseph  Keim,  Alexander  Walker. 

September  22,  1874,  a  lot  situated  east  of  the  old  public  school 
building  was  purchased  for  $300,  for  a  Lutheran  church.  This 
lot  and  an  additional  $300  were  given  for  another  more  suitable 
lot,  fronting  forty-five  feet  on  Main  Street,  June  19,  1876,  by 
H.  J.  Friedline,  W.  H.  Zufall  and  Solomon  Grine,  trustees. 
These  men,  for  the  congregation,  let  a  contract  August  7,  1876, 
for  a  frame  church  to  be  erected  thereon,  to  Daniel  Schultz, 
35  by  5°  feet,  story  sixteen  feet  high,  arched  ceiling,  stained 
glass  windows,  with  vestibule,  belfry  and  spire.  The  congrega- 
tion, which  had  been  meeting  in  the  old  schoolhouse  and  the 
union  church,  all  the  Lutheran  interest  in  which  had  been  sold 
to  the  Reformed  people  in  1875  for  the  sum  of  $775,  met  in  the 
union  church,  August  16,  1876,  and  after  a  sermon  by  Rev.  Pof- 
fenberger,  on  1  Cor.  3 :  11,  led  by  Pastor  Koser,  proceeded  to  the 
new  foundation  for  the  corner-stone  laying.  The  pastor  was 
assisted  here  by  Rev.  Whetstone,  of  Somerset.  A  sum  of  .$318 
was  subscribed  toward  the  building  that  day.  The  membership 
was  only  eleven  communicants.  On  August  27,  1876,  after  re- 
ceiving "a  goodly  number"  of  new  members,  the  following  com- 
muned:  W.  M.  Wadsworth,  Mary  E.  Hammond,  Henry  J. 
Ebbecka,  Susan  Beynon,  Harriet  Livengood,  Christian  Fisher, 
Augusta  Fisher,  C.  P.  Heffley,  Ellen  C.  Heffley,  John  Wolf,  Caro- 
line Wrolf,  Ellen  Bittner,  Elizabeth  May,  Andrew  Shultz. 

The  dedication  took  place  July  29,  1877.  Rev.  W'hetstone 
1  (reaching  the  sermon  from  Hab.  2:20,  Revs.  Poffenberger, 
Pfahler  and  Spangler  also  being  present.  The  building,  plas- 
tered,  frescoed,  painted,  with  walnut  furniture,  was  neat,  modern 
698 


MT.   ZION,   MEYERSDALE 


and  comfortable,  its  cost  complete  over  $3,000.  It  received  the 
name  of  Alt.  Zion.  The  few  who  sacrificed  so  nobly  for  its 
realization  deserve  great  credit. 

Supply  pastors  from  Berlin  charge:  Rev.  Eli  Fair,  185 1  to 
1856;  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder,  1856  to  i860;  occasional  services  by 
various  ministers  during  i860  to  1864;  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  1864 
to  1865. 

Supply  pastors  from  Salisbury:  Rev.  John  Forthman,  1865  to 
1867;  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  1868  to  1873;  Rev.  I.  B.  Crist  served 
Meyersdale,    Garrett    and    Rockwood,    residing    in    Meyersdale, 

1873  to    1874;  Rev.    D.   Earhart    (supply   sent  by  conference), 

1874  to  1875  ;  Rev.  J.  A.  Koser,  1875  to  1878.  By  action  of  the 
joint  council,  the  Meyersdale  congregation  was  made  a  part  of 
the  Elk  Lick  charge,  consisting  then  of  Salisbury,  St.  Paul,  Cen- 
ter, Greenville  and  Meyersdale.  Rev.  J.  Milton  Snyder,  1878 
to  1884. 

Pastor  Snyder  served  the  five  congregations  above  till  Octo- 
ber 18,  1879,  giving  each  congregation  one  service  every  two 
weeks,  with  two  communions  each  yearly.  At  this  date,  Synod 
having  approved  (September  4,  1879),  the  withdrawal  of  the 
Fritz  Church  from  the  Berlin  charge,  and  the  Meyersdale  from 
Salisbury,  these  two  were  united  as  a  pastorate,  and  Rev.  Snyder 
became  pastor,  removing  to  Meyersdale.  He  also  served  Garrett 
as  a  supply,  during  1883  and  1884.  This  congregation  numbered 
about  150  members  at  this  time.  He  prepared  detailed  histories 
of  these  two  churches,  which  are  yet  in  existence. 

The  Meyersdale  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary 
Society  organized  May  8,  1882,  with  twenty  members  and  the 
following  officers :  President,  Mrs.  A.  W.  Gassman ;  vice-presi- 
dent, Mrs.  W.  H.  Zufall ;  recording  secretary,  Mrs.  G.  W.  Day ; 
corresponding  secretary,  Mrs.  G.  L.  Benford ;  treasurer,  Mrs. 
J.  T.  Shipley. 

A  bell  was  purchased,  weight  1,300  pounds,  and  placed  in  the 
belfry,  January  20,  1881,  now  on  the  new  church  on  Center 
Street.  The  audience  room  was  repainted  and  repapered  in 
1883.  Total  benevolence  contributed  during  this  pastorate.  $189. 
The  balance  of  the  church  debt  was  paid  October  31,  1883,  as  a 
part  of  the  celebration  of  the  400th  birthday  of  Luther.  Novem- 
ber 13-14,  1883,  the  church  opened  its  doors  to  a  celebration  of 

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this  event  by  the  local  pastors  and  the  Lutheran  ministers  of  the 
county. 

Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  August  24,  1884,  to  August  18,  1889. 
The  list  of  communicants  was  increased  by  103,  and  totaled  250 
at  the  close  of  this  pastorate.  The  Synodical  Missionary  Society 
were  guests  August  17-18,  1886. 

Rev.  J.  W.  Byers,  Ph.D.,  D.D.,  December  1,  1889,  to  Decem- 
ber, 1,  1891. 

Rev.  B.  B.  Collins,  April  1,  1892,  to  April  1,  1906.  Pastor 
Collins  introduced  quarterly  communions  and  led  the  congrega- 
tion to  numbers  and  influence.  His  material  monument  is  the 
present  house  of  worship. 

This  structure,  a  combination  of  Romanesque  and  Gothic, 
is  unusually  pleasing  and  churchly.  It  has  an  octagonal  domed 
ceiling,  supported  by  pilasters,  fine  art  windows,  oak  finish  and 
furniture,  artistically  frescoed  and  lighted.  It  stands  on  ground 
purchased  in  1895  for  $3,000,  including  a  brick  house,  now  the 
parsonage.  Its  present  value  is  more  than  ten  times  that  amount. 
The  cost  of  the  church  and  improvements  to  the  parsonage  were 
$26,000. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  August  9,  1899,  the  sermon  being 
preached  by  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.  Revs.  Welch  and  P. 
Bergstresser  were  also  present,  as  also  Revs.  A.  E.  Truxall,  D.D., 
and  J.  H.  Knepper,  local  pastors.  The  building  committee  was 
S.  B.  Philson,J.  C.  Speicher,  J.  H.  Pfahler,  H.  J.  Ebbecka  and 
J.  G.  Mognet. 

Services  of  dedication  were  held  February  10,  1901,  the  pastor 
assisted  by  many  local  Lutheran  and  other  brethren,  and  by 
Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger,  whose  soliciting  secured  the  needed 
funds  ($6,000)  to  dedicate  free  of  debt. 

Pastor  Collins,  whose  ashes  lie  in  the  local  cemetery,  has  also 
as  memorials  the  cherished  memory  of  all  who  knew  him. 

This  congregation  has  furnished  one  pastor,  Rev.  Charles  H. 
Tilp,  and  one  pastor's  wife,  Mrs.  C.  H.  Tilp,  nee  Shipley,  to  the 
Church  at  large;  also,  Miss  Grace  Kendall  to  preside  over  a 
Presbyterian  manse. 

Rev.  Charles  P.  MacLaughlin,  D.D.,  October  1,  1906,  to  Octo- 
ber 1,  1910.  Under  this  energetic  and  resourceful  pastor,  a 
Brotherhood  was  organized   (1906),  and  a  basement  room  pro- 


FIRST,   PORTAGE 


vided  for  their  meetings,  a  fine  pipe  organ  installed,  and  the  musi- 
cal and  liturgical  elements  of  worship  emphasized  by  vested 
junior  choir  and  altar  colors  and  decorations.  The  twentieth 
anniversary  of  the  congregation  as  a  separate  pastorate  was  cele- 
brated September  19,  1909,  lay  addresses  being  delivered  by  S.  B. 
Philson,  Hon.  S.  A.  Kendall  and  Hon.  W.  H.  Floto,  members. 

Rev.  John  A.  Yount,  March  1,  191 1,  to  December  1,  1913. 
Many  minor  improvements  and  repairs  were  made,  $2,644  given 
to  benevolence,  116  members  received,  and  a  total  of  $8,753  con" 
tributed  for  all  purposes,  and  a  quickened  interest  in  all  church 
and  mission  work  rewarded  this  pastor's  fervent  zeal  and  conse- 
crated service. 

Rev.  D.  W.  Michael,  June  3,  1914,  to  July  9,  1916.  The  larg- 
est amount  of  benevolence  ($1,200)  ever  paid  marked  the  first 
pastoral  year;  150  adults  received  to  membership  and  a  Sunday 
school  of  400  were  some  of  the  fruits  of  this  very  congenial  rela- 
tionship, reluctantly  severed. 

Rev.  J.  Luther  Frantz,  from  the  United  Synod  in  the  South, 
accepted  the  charge,  December  10,  19 17.  He  brought  to  the  par- 
sonage, February  17.  1917,  a  bride,  who  was  Miss  Beulah  Love 
Eckel,  of  Knoxville,  Tenn. 


PORTAGE-GALITZIN  PASTORATE 

Rev.  B.  R.  M.  Sheedcr,  Pastor 

First  Lutheran  Church,  Portage 

The  first  Lutheran  minister  to  preach  here  was  Rev.  Samuel 
Croft,  of  ^'ilmore,  Md.,  who  began  in  the  spring  of  1872.  A 
congregation  of  ten  charter  members  was  organized  August  21, 
1872.  to  which  twenty-one  were  soon  added. 

The  coal  company  furnished  the  ground  and  material  for  the 
building,  a  frame  building,  28  by  45  feet,  costing  about  $1,200. 
The  overseer  of  the  erection  was  Mr.  J.  C.  Martin,  who  later 
gave  the  Lutheran  congregation  a  deed  for  the  same.  It  was  dedi- 
cated October  20,  1872,  Revs.  Dr.  Conrad,  Fink  and  Rev.  Hart- 
sock  assisting.  As  the  town  had  only  about  fifteen  houses,  the 
edifice  was  considered  a  "union"  church,  and  served  as  such  for 
the  Protestants  of  the  entire  community. 

701 


SOMERSE T  CONFERENCE 


Mr.  Martin  and  others  later  joined  the  other  congregations, 
and  the  history  of  the  church  is  a  story  of  struggle  and  largely 
failure,  until  the  recent  years. 

It  was  served  by  Rev.  Settlemeyer  from  Wilmore  during  1874. 
Other  pastors  followed  at  intervals,  about  as  follows,  supplying 
from  Wilmore  or  Lilly:  1884  and  1885,  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell;  1887 
and  1888,  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh. 


THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN'    CHURCH    OF    PORTAGE,    PA. 


The  membership  increased  from  five  to  forty-two,  with  $50 
reported  to  Synod.  In  1889,  Rev.  Shile  Miller.  September  27, 
1891,  a  reorganization  was  effected  by  Rev.  B.  B.  Collins,  travel- 
ing secretary  of  Synod,  with  twenty-two  members.  In  1892  an 
application  was  made  to  Synod  by  "Luther's  Monumental  Con- 
gregation," of  Portage,  for  admission.  Synod  asks  that  it  adopt 
the  formula  of  government  and  the  constitution  provided  by  the 
General  Synod,  and  promises  a  reception  then  to  it,  to  be  a  part 
702 


FIRST,   PORTAGE 


of  the  Lilly  charge.  It  is  cared  for  this  year  by  Rev.  O.  F. 
Harshman. 

In  1893  and  1894,  this  congregation  of  eighteen  members,  with 
"Puritan,"  of  ten  members,  is  cared  for  by  Joseph  Minto,  not  a 
member  of  Alleghany  Synod. 

In  1896,  Rev.  I.  P.  Hawkins  supplies  Portage,  Martinsdale  and 
Jamestown,  the  first  two  points  with  fourteen  members  each,  the 
last  with  fifteen.  During  1897,  he  supplies  Portage  and  Puritan. 
Rev.  Isaac  Krider  supplies  Portage,  Martinsdale  and  Patton  dur- 
ing 1899,  with  eleven,  four  and  eight  members  respectively. 

It  is  "vacant"  now  until  1905,  when  it  disappears  from  the 
parochial  reports.  The  Lilly  pastors  again  take  it  up,  beginning 
with  Rev.  J.  C.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  in  1906,  who  reports  fifteen  mem- 
bers; property  valued  at  $3,000.  He  is  succeeded  in  191 1  by 
Rev.  P.  H.  Miller,  who  reports  eighteen  members.  Rev.  P.  H. 
Ketterman  reports,  in  1912,  eighteen,  and  in  1913,  twenty  mem- 
bers.    Rev.  H.  W.  Bender  supplies  during  1914. 

July  9,  191 5,  for  the  first  time,  a  pastor  comes  to  reside  among 
them,  Rev.  B.  R.  M.  Sheeder.  Seeing  the  great  need  of  a  church 
building  suited  to  the  times  and  place,  amidst  a  commercial  popu- 
lation of  about  10,000  souls,  and  the  growing  opportunities  for 
our  church,  it  was  unanimously  agreed  upon,  at  a  congregational 
meeting  held  October  9,  191 5,  to  commence  the  erection  of  a  new 
church  in  the  spring  following. 

This  enterprise  was  commenced,  and  on  October  22,  1916,  the 
corner-stone  was  laid,  Revs.  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  R.  D.  Clare  and 
R.  H.  Bergstresser  delivering  sermons  during  the  day,  with  local 
pastors  assisting. 

This  church,  commodious,  churchly,  and  well  suited  to  all  pur- 
poses, and  regarded  by  experts  as  the  best  in  the  town,  has  been 
erected,  a  cut  of  which  appears  in  connection  with  this  brief 
history. 

The  church  was  dedicated  May  27,  19 17,  Revs.  J.  E.  Bittle, 
D.D.,  R.  D.  Clare  and  A.  B.  Van  Ormer,  Pd.D.,  preaching  the 
sermons  during  the  day,  the  last  named  delivering  the  dedicatory 
sermon  proper. 

Dr.  Young  conducted  the  worship  of  offerings,  the  pastor 
performing  the  act  of  dedication. 

Pre-dedicatorv  services  were  held  during  the  preceding  week 

703 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


and  Monday  following,  during  which  Revs.  F.  S.  Schultz,  S.  N. 
Carpenter,  D.D.,  F.  R.  Wagner,  D.D.,  W.  A.  Shipman,  D.D.,  L.  P. 
Young,  D.D.,  and  H.  E.  Berkey,  preached  on  respective  evenings. 

The  church  plant  has  grown  from  practically  nothing  to  pos- 
sess a  property  worth  from  $18,000  to  $20,000. 

From  this  period  virtually  a  new  congregation  and  a  new  his- 
tory have  sprung.  There  is  now  a  growing  Sabbath  school,  an 
active  Ladies'  Aid  Society,  and  Sewing  Circle,  well  equipped  to 
do  aggressive  work.  Much  new  material  has  been  added,  new 
life  infused,  and  the  future  is  full  of  promise. 

St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
gallitzin,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  organized  September  4,  1887,  by  Rev. 
P.  G.  Bell  with  forty-nine  charter  members.  For  awhile  they 
worshiped  in  a  private  house,  but  later  what  is  now  the  Pres- 
byterian church  was  erected  by  general  subscriptions,  and  both 
the  Lutheran  and  the  Presbyterian  congregations  worshiped  in 
it.  Rev.  Bell  resigned  September  1,  1890.  Rev.  O.  F.  Harshman, 
Lilly,  supplied  during  1891,  reporting  fifteen  members. 

The  sainted  Rev.  E.  J.  Metzler,  of  St.  Paul's,  Altoona,  served 
as  a  supply  from  this  time  till  his  death  May  10,  1905,  with  the 
exception  of  1903,  when  it  was  left  without  pastoral  care.  The 
membership  had  increased  to  thirty-eight  communicants. 

Rev.  J.  H.  Houseman  served  from  Juniata  from  June  24,  1905, 
to  February  12,  1906. 

About  July,  ,1906,  Rev.  William  Hoffman  became  pastor. 

Plans  were  already  on  foot  for  a  new  church.  A  committee 
was  appointed  July  10,  and  on  the  twenty-fourth  reported  plans 
which  were  accepted  and  work  started.  On  September  30,  the 
corner-stone  was  laid.  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell  preached  the  sermon  and 
Rev.  C.  E.  Smith  assisted  in  the  services. 

On  September  15,  1907,  the  church  was  dedicated.  The 
ministers  present  were  Revs.  H.  L.  Yarger,  D.D.,  J.  H.  House- 
man. J.  H.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  and  J.  E.  Pleindel.  Subsequent  serv- 
ices were  given  by  Dr.  A.  E.  W'agner  and  Dr.  C.  E.  Keller.  Mr. 
Schultz,  an  active  layman  of  the  church,  was  architect,  contractor 
and  financier,  and  secured  splendid  architectural  results,  the 
finest  Protestant  church  in  the  community,  at  a  cost  of  $10,600. 
704 


ST.  JOHN'S  (SANNER'S) 


Rev.  Hoffman  resigned  July  i,  1909,  reporting  127  members. 

From  October,  1909,  to  September,  1910,  Rev.  D.  S.  Hafer 
served  this  place  in  connection  with  Cresson. 

Rev.  Hoffman  is  pastor  a  second  time,  January  4,  191 1,  to 
March  31,  1912.     He  reported  100  members. 

A  vacancy  now  occurs  until  the  coming  of  the  present  pastor, 
Rev.  B.  R.  M.  Sheeder,  July  10,  191 5.  The  number  of  members 
reported  to  Synod  October,  1916,  was  sixty,  and  a  debt  on  the 
congregation  of  $3,700.  Both  pastor  and  people  feel  that  a  better 
day  and  brighter  history  for  St.  John's  is  not  far  distant. 


ROCKWOOD  CHARGE 
Rev.  John  Erler,  Ph.D.,  Pastor 

St.  John's  (Sanner's)  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
black  township,  somerset  county,  pa. 

Tradition  credits  the  beginning  of  this  congregation  to  the 
work  of  Rev.  John  Wolf  Lizel  as  early  as  1783,  and  to  his 
successor,  the  Rev.  John  Michael  Steck  from  1789  to  1792,  but 
its  recorded  congregational  history  begins  with  the  pastoral  labors 
of  Rev.  Frederick  William  Lange,  who  served  from  1795  to  181 1, 
and  was  followed  in  order  of  succession  as  pastors  by  the  Revs. 
Ernest  Henry  Tiedeman  in  the  year  1812-1819;  Jacob  Criegler 
(Berlin  charge),  1819-1834;  George  Leiter  (Berlin  charge), 
1834-1836;  Charles  Rees  (Berlin  charge),  1836-1840;  Charles 
Rees  (Centreville  charge),  1841-1842;  supplied  from  other 
charges,  1842-1845;  Michael  Frederick  Pfahler  (Centreville 
charge),  1845-1848;  William  Uhl  (supply),  1848-1849;  Samuel 
B.  Lawson  (Salisbury  charge),  1849-1850;  Solomon  McHenry 
(Centreville  charge),  1851-1854;  Jacob  K.  Bricker  (Centreville 
charge),  1854-1857;  John  Tomlinson  (Centreville  charge),  1857- 
1861  ;  Charles  Young  (Centreville  charge),  1862-1864;  Josiah 
Zimmerman  (Centreville  charge),  1865-1869;  Reuben  Smith 
(Centreville  charge),  1870-1873;  I.  B.  Crist  (a  new  charge), 
[873-1874;  supplied  (Smith,  of  Centreville),  1 874-1 875  ;  John 
X.  Unruh  (Centreville  charge),  1876-1881  ;  John  Buehler  Shoup 
(Rockwood  charge),  1881-1883;  L.  N.  Fleck  (Rockwood 
charge),  1884-1888;  William  H.  Settlemyer  (Rockwood  charge). 
1888-1892;  Peter  Bergstresser,  D.D.   (Rockwood  charge),  1893- 

705 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


1901 ;  J.  Calvin  Fasold  (Rockwood  charge),  1901-1903;  H.  Clin- 
ton Salem  (Rockwood  charge),  1904-1905;  Charles  H.  Day 
(Rockwood  charge),  1905-1908;  Daniel  S.  Kurtz  (Rockwood 
charge),  1908-1914;  John  Erler,  PhD.,  1915 

On  the  title  page  of  the  old  church  record  is  written  in  the 
German  language  in  the  handwriting  of  the  Rev.  Frederick 
William  Lange,  "The  church  book  of  the  Evangelical  congrega- 
tion in  Milford  Township,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  1795."  The 
first  record  of  infant  baptism  made  in  this  book  is  that  of  March 
25,  1795,  in  Rev.  Lange's  handwriting.  There  is,  however,  tra- 
ditional evidence  that  there  was  a  log  building  erected  for  church 
and  school  purposes  as  early  as  1783,  in  which  the  pioneers  of 
this  congregation  heard  the  gospel  preached  that'  led  to  the 
organization  of  the  congregation  which  was  known  as  the  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  congregation,  and  worshiped  together  with 
another  Evangelical  congregation  in  the  building  that  was  after- 
ward erected  on  the  plot  of  ground  which  James  Wilson  and  his 
wife,  Rebecca,  gave  by  deed  on  March  26,  1814,  to  John  Gephart, 
Jr.,  and  Jonathan  Miller,  trustees  of  the  Lutheran  and  Presbyte- 
rian (i.e.,  Reformed)  Societies  for  the  consideration  of  ten  cents, 
and  the  love,  respect  and  esteem  in  which  they  held  both  societies. 
This  plot,  containing  two  acres  of  ground,  was  a  part  of  the  400 
acres  of  land  Mr.  Wilson  had  surveyed  on  March  4,  181 1,  and 
covering  the  ground  on  which  had  been  built  a  log  church  build- 
ing and  a  schoolhouse,  and  including  the  cemetery.  The  said 
church  building  was  25  by  30  feet  in  dimension,  with  galleries  on 
three  sides,  but  never  reached  completion  as  designed.  An 
agreement  was  written  between  the  two  congregations  that  each 
denomination  shall  have  an  equal  right  to  the  privileges  and  in 
the  property  of  the  above  conveyance. 

The  Rev.  Ernest  Henry  Tiedeman  was  licensed  to  preach  by 
the  Pennsylvania  Ministerium  in  1812,  and  was  appointed  mis- 
sionary to  travel  for  three  months  in  the  State  of  Ohio  and  the 
western  part  of  Pennsylvania.  A  special  meeting  of  the  Western 
Conference,  which  included  all  the  ministers  west  of  the  Alle- 
ghany Mountains,  was  held  on  December  12,  181 2,  in  Washington 
County,  Pa.,  at  which  Rev.  Tiedeman  was  urged  to  take  charge 
of  the  vacant  congregations  in  Somerset  County,  which  he  did 
until  the  time  of  Synod  in  181 3.  He  then  became  the  regular 
706 


ST.  JOHN'S  (SANNER'S) 


pastor  of  Somerset,  Samuel's,  Berlin,  Stoyestown,  Gebhard's 
and  Sanner's  which  had  united  in  a  call  which  Synod  ratified.  In 
1818,  the  charge  was  divided  by  the  Western  Conference  in 
forming  the  Berlin  charge,  and  Rev.  Tiedeman  resigned  as  pastor 
of  Berlin,  Gebhard's,  Sanner's  and  Pine  Hill  congregations,  but 
retained,  to  form  the  Somerset  charge,  Somerset,  Samuel's,  Fried- 
ens,  and  Stoyestown.  He  died  in  serving  Schellsburg,  Bedford 
and  other  points. 

On  April  1,  1819,  Rev.  Jacob  Criegler  took  charge  of  Berlin 
pastorate,  and  in  June  of  the  same  year  a  letter  to  Synod  desired 
Rev.  Criegler  to  become  pastor  of  this  congregation  which  was 
granted.  He  resigned  on  April  1,  1834,  and  moved  to  Florence, 
Boone  County,  Kentucky.  As  part  of  the  Berlin  charge  this 
congregation  was  served  by  Revs.  George  Leiter  from  May,  1834, 
to  May  1,  1836,  and  by  Rev.  Charles  Rees  from  May  1,  1836,  to 
May  1,  1840.  On  May  1,  1841,  Rev.  Charles  Rees,  as  the  pastor 
of  the  Centreville  charge,  served  this  congregation  the  second 
time  and  closed  his  labors  here  on  August  1,  1842. 

From  1842  to  1845,  ^  was  dependent  upon  supplies  from 
various  sources.  In  the  year  1845,  on  April  1,  the  Rev.  Michael 
Frederick  Pfahler  took  charge  of  the  Centreville  Mission,  but 
seldom  preached  here.  He  resigned  on  April  1,  1848.  In  1849, 
Rev.  William  Uhl,  from  Somerset,  Pa.,  supplied  them  with 
preaching,  and  reclaimed  the  congregation  from  the  intrusions 
made  by  pastors  of  other  denominations.  He  served  one  year 
and  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson,  of  the  Salisbury 
charge,  who  supplied  from  1849  to  the  close  of  the  year  1850. 

On  January  1,  1851,  Rev.  Solomon  McHenry  became  pastor 
and  resigned  on  April  1,  1854.  On  November  1,  1854,  Rev. 
Jacob  K.  Bricker  took  charge  of  the  Centreville  pastorate  and 
resigned  on  May  1,  1857.  On  the  same  day  the  Rev.  John 
Tomlinson  began  his  labors  in  this  field  and  resigned  his  office  on 
September  15,  1861.  On  April  1,  1862,  Rev.  Charles  Young 
became  pastor  of  the  Centreville  charge,  but  seldom  preached  in 
this  congregation.  He  resigned  on  December  15,  1864.  Rev. 
Josiah  Zimmerman  served  the  Centreville  charge  from  February 
15,  1865,  to  February  15,  1869,  but  only  occasionally  preached  at 
Sanner's  Church. 

On  July  20,  1870,  Rev.  Reuben  Smith  began  his  labors  in  the 

707 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Centreville  charge,  and  occasionally  preached  for  this  congrega- 
tion.    On  October  3,  1871,  the  two  congregations  worshiping  at 
Sanner's  Church  met  to  take  counsel  in  regard  to  the  matter  of 
rebuilding  the  church.     They  agreed  to  rebuild  on  the  old  con- 
stitutional privileges  of  equal  rights  to  each  denominational  con- 
gregation, and  the  following  building  committee  was  nominated 
and    elected :      Lutheran,    George    Humbert    and    Levi    Sanner ; 
Reformed,  David  Wabel  and  Peter  J.  Baker.    They  proceeded  to 
build.     The  papers  and  money  in  the  old  corner-stone  of   1809 
were  found  in  a  good  state  of  preservation,  and  were  redeposited 
in  the  corner-stone  of  the  new  church  building  without  the  pres- 
ence of  a  minister.     Hence  there  was  no  list  preserved  of  the 
contents  of  the  corner-stone.     When  this  church  building  was 
finished,    neither    the    Lutheran    nor    the    German    Reformed 
minister  would  dedicate  this  union  church  and  so  it  stood  undedi- 
cated.     It  was  a  one-story  frame  building,  30  by  40  feet,  having 
a  cupola  and  bell,  and  cost  $800  to  erect  it.     In  1873,  Rev.  Smith 
ceased  to  supply  them  with  preaching,  and  on  January  1,   1875, 
resigned.     Because  of  this  the   Sanner's  congregation,  together 
with   the    Meyersdale,   Garret,   Center   and   other   congregations 
formed  a  new  charge  and  called  Rev.  I.  B.  Crist  to  become  their 
pastor  on  October  1,  1873.     He  accepted  the  call  but  left  them 
in  June  of  the   following  year.     The  pastor  of  the  Centreville 
charge  supplied  them  with  preaching  until  January  1,  1876,  when 
Rev.  John  N.  Unruh  became  pastor  of  the   Centreville  charge 
and    supplied   them   with   week-day   evening  preaching  until   he 
resigned  on  October  18,  1881.     From  this  date  on  it  became  a 
part  of  the  Rock  wood  charge,  and  was  served  by  the  same  pastors 
as  that  charge.    Under  the  pastoral  care  of  Rev.  Charles  H.  Day 
in  Kjo'i.  having  purchased  the  interests  of  the  German  Reformed 
congregation,    the    Lutheran    congregation    erected    a    beautiful 
church  building,  and  removed  the  old  "Baker  Church"  building 
from  the  premises.     A  congregation  of  fifty  members  now  wor- 
ship here. 

During  the  Lenten  season  of  1916,  the  pastor.  Dr.  John  Erler, 
issued  a  pastoral  letter  calling  upon  the  congregation  to  bring  a 
Lenten  self-denial  offering  into  the  house  of  God  with  which 
to  pay  off  the  mortgage  and  notes  left  since  the  erection  of  the 
new  church. 
708 


EMANUEL,  BLACK  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  COUNTY 

In  the  fall  of  the  same  year,  after  a  Sunday  service,  the  pastor 
burned  the  mortgage  and  notes,  leaving  this  church  entirely 
without  any  debt. 

The  church  was  repainted  and  redecorated  during  the  same 
year. 

This  church  was  incorporated  in  the  year  of  1916  under  the 
laws  of  the  State  as  St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church. 

Emanuel,  or  Laurel  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
black  township,  somerset  county,  pa.  . 

If  there  was  preaching  in  this  vicinity  prior  to  1819,  there  is 
no  record  of  it  to  which  we  have  access.  The  records  of  this 
congregation  begin  with  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Jacob  Criegler.  who 
probably  was  the  first  Lutheran  minister  to  preach  regularlv  in 
this  community.  The  Lutheran  families  attended  services  in  the 
church  at  New  Centreville,  and  even  during  the  first  vear  of 
Rev.  Criegler's  preaching  they  attended  communion  services 
there,  though  they  attended  the  services  he  held  in  the  YVeimer's 
Schoolhouse  where  he  began  to  preach.  He  closed  his  pastoral 
labors  at  Laurel  Church  on  April  1,  1834,  which  he  served  as 
part  of  the  Berlin  charge.  He  was  succeeded  by  the  following 
pastors : 

Revs.  George  Leiter  (Berlin  Charge),  1834- 1836;  Charles 
Rees  (Berlin  charge),  1 836-1 843 ;  Jesse  Winecoff  (Berlin 
charge),  1843-1845 ;  Michael  F.  Pfahler  (Centreville  Charge), 
1845-1848;  Samuel  B.  Lawson  (Salisbury  charge),  1849-1850; 
Solomon  McHenry  (Centreville  charge),  1851-1854;  Jacob  K. 
Bricker  (Centreville  charge),  1854-1857;  John  Tomlinson  (Cen- 
treville charge),  1857-186 1  ;  Charles  Young  (Centreville  charge), 
1862-1864;  Josiah  Zimmerman  (Centreville  charge),  1865-1869; 
Reuben  Smith  (Centreville  charge),  1 870-1 875  ;  John  N.  Unruh 
(Centreville  charge),  1876-1881  ;  John  Buehler  Shoup  (Rock- 
wood  charge),  1881-1883;  L.  N.  Fleck  (Rockwood  charge),  1884- 
1888;  William  H.  Settlemyer  (Rockwood  charge),  1888-1892; 
Peter  Bergstresser,  D.D.  (Rockwood  charge),  1893-1901  ;  J. 
Calvin  Fasold  (Rockwood  charge),  1901-1903;  H.  Clinton  Salem 
(Rockwood  charge),  1 904-1 905 ;  Charles  H.  Day  (Rockwood 
charge),  1905-1908;  Daniel  S.  Kurtz  (Rockwood  charge),  1908- 

1914;  John  Frier,  Ph.D.,  191 5 

709 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


The  organization  of  Emanuel  congregation  for  permanency  is 
due  to  the  work  of  the  Rev.  George  Leiter,  who,  on  May  31,  1835, 
held  his  first  communion  at  which  twenty-nine  were  confirmed 
and  thirty-three  communed.  He  did  a  great  work  here  in  a 
short  time.  He  resigned  on  May  1,  1836,  and  on  June  1,  1836, 
Rev.  Charles  Rees  succeeded  him.  In  1837,  a  one-story  frame 
church  building  was  erected  on  a  lot  of  ground  which  Mr. 
"Weimer  donated  to  the  congregation  which  was  located  about 
thirty  rods  south  of  the  old  schoolhouse.  The  record  of  the  dimen- 
sions and  what  has  become  of  the  old  church  and  when  it  was  dedi- 
cated are  lost  to  view.  Rev.  Rees  resigned  in  April,  1840,  and 
went  to  Masontown,  Fayette  County,  Pa.,  but  returned  to  take 
charge  of  the  Centreville  pastorate  on  May  1,  1841,  of  which 
Emanuel's  congregation  was  to  be  a  part,  and  when  he  resigned 
on  August  1,  1842,  the  Synod  had  not  ratified  the  proposed  for- 
mation of  the  Centreville  charge,  which  left  Emanuel's  congre- 
gation without  a  place  in  the  charge.  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  the 
pastor  of  the  Berlin  charge,  supplied  Emanuel's  congregation, 
holding  his  communion  there  on  July  28,  1844,  and  closed  his 
labors  on  April  1,  1845,  when  Rev.  Michael  F.  Pfahler  took 
charge  of  the  Centreville  pastorate  to  which  Emanuel's  congre- 
gation then  belonged.  Rev.  Pfahler  resigned  on  April  1,  1848, 
and  they  were  without  a  pastor  until  April  1,  1849,  when  Rev. 
Samuel  B.  Lawson,  from  the  Salisbury  charge,  began  to  supply 
them  and  continued  until  the  close  of  the  year  1850. 

On  January  1,  1851,  Rev.  Solomon  McHenry  accepted  the  call 
from  the  Centreville  charge,  including  Emanuel's  congregation, 
which  he  served  until  his  resignation  on  April  1,  1854.  On 
November  1,  1854,  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Bricker  entered  upon  his 
duties  as  pastor  and  resigned  his  office  on  May  1,  1857.  The 
Rev.  John  Tomlinson  accepted  the  call  from  the  Centreville 
charge  on  May  1,  1857,  and  resigned  his  office  on  September  15, 
[861.  He  was  followed  by  Rev.  Charles  Young  on  April  1,  1862, 
who  closed  his  labors  on  December  11,  1864. 

(  )n  February  15,  1865,  Rev.  Josiah  Zimmerman  began  his  work 
in  the  charge.  It  was  during  his  incumbency  in  office  in  1867 
that  the  new  frame  one-story  church  building  was  erected  near 
the  site  of  the  old  church  building.  It  was  built  32  by  40  feet 
and  at  a  cost  of  $800.  In  February,  1869,  he  moved  to  the  west. 
710 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROCKIVOOD 


He  was  followed  in  office  by  Rev.  Reuben  Smith  on  July  20, 
1870,  and  after  laboring  four  and  a  half  years  resigned  on 
January  1,  1875.  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh  entered  the  charge  on 
January  1,  1876,  and  resigned  on  October  18,  1881.  On  Decem- 
ber 31,  1 88 1,  the  Rockwood  pastorate  was  formed  principally 
out  of  congregations  belonging  to  the  Centreville  charge,  and 
Emanuel's  became  a  constituent  part  of  it.  On  the  same  day. 
Rev.  John  Buehler  Shoup  was  elected  to  be  pastor  and  entered 
upon  his  duties  in  the  charge  at  once.  He  resigned  his  office  on 
April  1,  1883.  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck  was  installed  as  pastor  of  the 
Rockwood  charge,  at  Rockwood,  Pa.,  on  December  24,  1884, 
and  resigned  his  office  on  July  1,  1888. 

All  the  other  pastors  were  the  same  as  those  of  the  Rockwood 
congregation.     (See  its  history.) 

This  church  was  remodeled  inside  and  out  during  the  summer 
of  191 5,  and  rededicated  by  the  pastor,  Dr.  Erler,  on  Sunday, 
October  31,  1915. 

In  June,  1916.  the  old  tower  of  St.  Luke's  Church  was  removed 
and  added  to  this  church  giving  it  a  vestibule  entrance  and  a 
very  churchly  appearance. 

On  Easter  Sunday,  1917,  the  pastor  dedicated  anew  1000-pound 
bell  which  had  been  placed  in  the  tower  of  the  church. 

St.  Luke's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
rockwood,  PA. 
The  Rev.  Reuben  Smith,  of  the  Centreville  charge,  began  to 
hold  preaching  services  in  Mineral  Point,  which  has  since  become 
Rockwood,  Pa.,  as  early  as  1870.  The  services  in  the  beginning 
were  held  in  the  Evangelical  Church,  then  in  the  United  Brethren 
Church  and  later  in  the  German  Reformed  Church.  The  congre- 
gation was  organized  under  the  pastoral  care  of  Rev.  John  N. 
Unruh,  of  the  Centreville  charge.  The  exact  date  of  the 
organization  is  not  recorded.  It  was  at  the  close  of  the  year 
1881,  when  a  division  of  the  Centreville  charge  was  being  con- 
sidered, which  led  to  a  meeting  of  delegates  from  the  Emanuel's 
(Laurel),  Pines,  Sanner's,  Garret  and  Rockwood  congregations, 
which  was  held  in  the  public  school  building  in  Rockwood,  Pa., 
on  December  31,  1881.  at  which  a  new  pastorate  was  formed  and 
named   the   "Rockwood   charge,"   of   the   Alleghany   Evangelical 

711 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Lutheran  Synod.  Immediately  after  this  action  was  taken  the 
Rockwood  congregation  reorganized  with  the  understanding  that 
the  congregation  thus  organized  and  known  as  the  "Messiah 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  of  Rockwood,  Pa.,"  should  be 
governed  by  the  "form  of  government"  contained  in  the  Book  of 
Worship  of  the  General  Synod  Lutheran  Church.  At  this  meet- 
ing Mr.  John  Stein  was  elected  an  elder,  and  James  D.  Critch- 
field  and  R.  H.  Dull,  deacons. 

At  the  meeting  on  December  31,  1881,  Rev.  John  Buehler 
Shoup  was  elected  the  first  pastor  of  the  newly  formed  charge, 
and  entered  at  once  upon  his  duties  at  a  stipulated  salary  of  $360 


ST.    LUKES    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    ROCKWOOD,    PA. 


per  year.  In  the  beginning  of  the  year  1883,  the  above  named 
five  congregations  added  the  newly  organized  congregation  at 
Markleton  to  the  Rockwood  charge  and  increased  the  salary  to 
$500  per  year,  and  urged  him  to  stay  with  them.  But  Rev. 
Shoup's  acceptance  of  the  Grantsville  charge  led  him  to  resign 
his  office  on  April  1,  1883. 

Rev.  J.  Milton  Snyder,  pastor  at  Meyersdale,  supplied  Rock- 
wood congregation  from  January  1,  1884,  to  July  6,  1884. 

On  February  21,  1884,  the  Messiah  congregation  met  in  the 
Evangelical  Church,  at  Rockwood,  Pa.,  when  Rev.  John  W.  Pof- 
712 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROCKWOOD 


fenberger  preached  the  sermon  preparatory  to  a  business  meet- 
ing that  was  held  the  following  day  at  which  steps  were  taken 
toward  the  erection  of  a  Lutheran  church  building  in  Rockwood. 
A  committee  to  secure  a  location  and  a  lot  of  ground  for  a  church 
building  was  appointed  to  report  at  an  adjourned  meeting  to  be 
held  on  March  21,  1884.  The  committee,  consisting  of  Harrison 
Snyder,  Joseph  D.  Miller  and  W.  H.  H.  Baker,  were  ready  with 
their  report  on  March  21,  1884,  and  the  meeting  was  held. 
James  D.  Critchfield  was  chosen  chairman,  and  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn, 
the  secretary.     The  committee  reported  that  they  had  secured  a 


INTERIOR    ST.    LUKES    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    ROCKWOOD,    PA. 


very  desirable  lot  on  the  corner  of  Market  and  Broadway  Streets 
for  the  sum  of  $100.  Their  report  was  adopted  after  which 
elections  for  officers  of  the  church  were  held,  which  resulted  as 
follows :  Trustees,  James  D.  Critchfield  and  R.  H.  Dull ;  elders, 
Harrison  Snyder  and  John  Stein;  deacons,  William  H.  H.  Baker 
and  Jon.  L.  Bittner.  A  building  committee  was  also  chosen  con- 
sisting of  Rev.  J.  W.  Pofrenberger,  Joseph  D.  Miller  and  John 
Stein,  and  the  plans  and  specifications  for  the  building  were  then 
presented  and  adopted,  and  the  contract  was  duly  awarded  to 
Messrs.  A.  Growall  &  Sons,  of  Rockwood,  Pa.     Strenuous  efforts 

713 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


to  secure  funds  were  amply  repaid  with  great  success. 

On  June  16,  1884,  the  corner-stone  was  laid  by  Rev.  J.  W. 
Poffenberger,  after  an  appropriate  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev. 
J.  F.  Shearer.  Others  present  were  Revs.  J.  H.  Zinn,  J.  N. 
Unruh,  Luther  Kuhlman  and  Hubler. 

On  December  14,  1884.  the  building  was  dedicated  to  the  serv- 
ice of  God.  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon, 
and  Rev.  J.  W.  Poffenberger  conducted  the  liturgical  services  in 
the  morning.  At  the  evening  service  the  newly  elected  pastor, 
Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  was  installed  in  the  Rockwood  pastorate,  the 
Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn  delivering  the  charge  to  the  congregation  and 


D.    H.   WOLFERSBURGER,     ST.    LUKE  S„    ROCKWOOD,    PA. 

Rev.  Hubler  to  the  pastor.  The  church  was  a  beautiful  one-story 
frame  building,  50  by  35  feet,  erected  at  a  cost  of  about  $2,500, 
and  was  a  model  of  economy.  Prior  to  the  dedication  a  week  of 
evening  services  were  held  in  which  Revs.  Taylor,  Shearer, 
Hubler,  Zinn,  Young.  Kuhlman,  Welch,  Poffenberger  and  Fleck 
participated. 

The  congregation  changed  its  name  and  title  from  "Messiah" 
to  "St.  Luke's"  at  its  reorganization.  On  February  3,  1885,  the 
( iarret  congregation  withdrew  from  the  Rockwood  charge,  leaving 
Rockwood,  Emanuel's,  Pines  and  Sanner's  congregations  to  con- 
stitute the  charge.  Rev.  L.  \.  Fleck  resigned  this  charge  on 
714 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROCK  WOOD 


July  i,  1888,  and  on  September  15,  1888,  Rev.  William  H.  Settle- 
myer  became  the  pastor,  and  completed  the  building  of  a  parson- 
age for  which  preparation  was  made  under  the  ministrations  of 
Rev.  Fleck. 

The  Rockwood  charge  had  purchased  a  parsonage  on  Main 
Street,  Rockwood,  Pa.,  of  which  the  record  of  May  12,  1883,  has 
minutes.  It  was  ordered  to  be  sold  on  March  19,  1887,  and  the 
sale  was  effected.  The  proceeds  of  the  sale  were  used  in  the 
purchase  of  two  lots  on  Broadway  Street,  adjoining  the  church 
property,  and  in  building  the  new  parsonage  on  them  in  1889. 


HON.   C.  J.   HEMMIXGER,   M.D.,   ST.    LUKES,  ROCKWOOD 

The  cost  of  the  parsonage  was  $1,527.92  on  which  a  debt 
remained  of  $500  till  the  close  of  1892.  Rev.  Settlemyer  closed 
his  labors  here  on  December  15,  1892.  After  a  vacancy  of  nine 
and  a  half  months  Rev.  Peter  Bergstresser,  D.D.,  was  called  on 
September  1,  1893,  and  was  pastor  for  nearly  eight  years,  closing 
his  labors  in  1901. 

On  March  1,  1901,  Rev.  J.  Calvin  Fasold  began  his  ministry 
in  this  charge,  and  after  two  years'  service  resigned  on  March  1, 
1903.    He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  H.  Clinton  Salem,  on  February 

715 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


2,  1904,  who  remained  in  the  charge  till  April  2,  1905,  when  he 
resigned. 

Rev.  Charles  H.  Day  became  the  pastor  of  this  charge  on  June 
11,  1905,  and  resigned  his  office  in  June,  1908. 

On  December  12,  1908,  the  writer  of  this  sketch,  Rev.  Daniel 
S.  Kurtz,  entered  upon  his  labors  in  this  field.  He  was 
installed  in  office  on  February  28,  1909,  by  Revs.  Levi  P.  Young 
and  I.  Hess  Wagner,  who  delivered  the  charges  to  the  congrega- 
tion and  pastor. 

The  following  pastors  served  in  the  order  of  their  succession : 


HARRISON    SNYDER,    ST.    LUKE  S,    ROCKWOOD 


Revs.  John  N.  Unruh  ( Centreville  charge),  1876-1881  ;  John 
Buehler  Shoup  (Rockwood  charge),  1881-1883;  J.  Milton  Snyder 
(supply),  1884;  L.  N.  Fleck  (Rockwood  charge),  1884-1888; 
William  H.  Settlemyer  (Rockwood  charge),  1888-1892;  Peter 
Bergstresser,  D.D.  (Rockwood  charge),  1893-1901 ;  J.  Calvin 
Fasold  (Rockwood  charge),  1901-1903;  H.  Clinton  Salem  (Rock- 
wood charge),  1904-1905;  Charles  H.  Day  (Rockwood  charge), 
1905-1908;  Daniel  S.  Kurtz  (Rockwood  charge),  1 908-1914; 
John  Frier,  Ph.D.  (Rockwood  charge),  191 5- 
716 


ST.  LUKE'S,  ROCKWOOD 


Additional  Sketch  by  Rev.  John  Erler 

On  January  18,  191 5,  a  call  was  extended  to  the  Rev.  John 
Erler,  Ph.D.,  of  New  York  City,  N.  Y.  This  call  was  accepted 
on  February  25,  and  the  pastorate  assumed  on  March  1  of  the 
same  year. 

During  the  first  year  of  this  pastorate  large  classes  of  adults 
were  received  at  every  communion  into  the  fellowship  of  the 
church.     The  Sunday  school  grew  rapidly  also. 

The  parsonage  was  remodeled  and  every  modern  convenience 
installed  at  a  cost  of  about  $1,200,  which  amount  was  raised  and 
paid  for  at  the  end  of  the  year. 

On  November  9,  the  church  council  met  at  the  home  of  Dr. 
Saylor  with  the  architects,  Messrs.  Fulton  and  Butler,  of  Union- 
town,  Pa.,  to  consider  the  feasibility  of  a  new  church  edifice. 

It  was  then  and  there  decided  to  have  proposed  plans  prepared 
by  the  architects.  At  a  congregational  meeting  held  on  January 
2,  1 9 16,  the  congregation  voted  unanimously  in  favor  of  the 
proposed  plans  of  a  solid  brick  building,  92  by  96  feet.  A  can- 
vass was  made  and  $8,000  was  secured  on  share  cards. 

On  June  6,  1916,  the  contract  for  the  proposed  building  was 
let  to  Roy  D.  Hostetler.  In  the  early  part  of  June  the  old 
church  was  moved  and  ground  broken.  On  August  2J,  the  cor- 
ner-stone was  laid  by  the  pastor,  the  following  participating  in 
the  services :  Revs.  I.  Hess  Wagner.  R.  D.  Clare,  L.  L.  Sieber, 
D.D. 

During  the  time  of  the  erection  $2,000  more  was  secured  by  the 
untiring  efforts  of  the  pastor  through  memorial  windows  in 
church  and  Sunday  school,  pulpit  and  altar  furnishings,  etc., 
bringing  the  sum  total  prior  to  the  dedication  to  $10,000.  The  new 
sanctuary  was  dedicated  by  the  pastor  on  Sunday,  June  10,  1917. 

The  following  pastors  participated:  L.  P.  Young,  D.D.,  F.  R. 
Wagner,  D.D.,  H.  B.  Burkholder,  R.  D.  Clare,  Simon  Snyder. 
The  sum  raised  on  the  day  of  dedication  amounted  to  $8,000, 
bringing  the  total  up  to  $18,000,  the  entire  cost  of  the  building 
being  $26,000 ;  it  left  the  small  indebtedness  of  $8,000.  The  base- 
ment is  admirably  fitted  up  for  social  service  work,  the  Sunday 
school  building  well  adapted  for  class  instruction,  while  the  audi- 
torium, in  arrangement  and  furnishings,  is  according  to  the  most 
approved  ideas  of  Lutheran  church  architecture. 

717 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


The  Former  Markleton  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
black  township,  somerset  county,  pa. 

The  Rev.  John  Buehler  Shoup,  soon  after  entering  upon  his 
duties  as  pastor  of  the  newly  formed  Rockwood  charge,  accepted 
an  offer  made  by  the  Markle  brothers  to  donate  a  plot  of  ground 
and  half  the  cost  of  the  erection  of  a  church  building  to  the 
congregation  organizing  there,  provided  that  they  would  make  a 
payment  of  $700  toward  the  completion  of  the  building.  The 
terms  of  this  offer  were  subscribed  to  and  they  proceeded  to 
build.  The  corner-stone  for  the  building  was  laid  on  April  28, 
1882,  by  the  Rev.  Shoup,  who  was  assisted  by  Revs.  L.  L.  Sieber 
and  J.  W.  Ryder.  A  congregation  was  organized  on  July  18, 
1882,  with  eleven  members.  The  building  was  of  a  beautiful 
Gothic  chapel  style,  measuring  57  by  28  feet,  and  erected  at  a 
cost  of  $1,300.  It  was  dedicated  on  September  24,  of  the  same 
year.  Unfortunately,  the  location  was  not  a  suitable  one  for 
development  and  the  failure  of  the  Markle  brothers'  enterprise 
left  the  struggling  congregation  without  financial  support  or  hope 
of  success.  On  April  1,  1883,  Rev.  Shoup  resigned,  and  the  few 
members  of  the  congregation  found  church  fellowship  elsewhere. 
The  building  was  sold  and  in  recent  years  the  United  Brethren 
denomination  holds  services  in  it. 

The  above  sale  was  made  by  authority  of  Conference,  and  the 
proceeds  disbursed  under  its  direction. 

The  Former  St.  John's  (Pines)  Evangelical  Lutheran 

Church 
milford  township,  somerset  county,  pa. 

A  certain  Mr.  Graff,  of  Somerset,  owning  a  large  tract  of  pine 
timber  land  and  a  saw  mill,  put  up  a  number  of  houses  for  the 
use  of  his  employees  in  the  immediate  neighborhood  in  which  the 
St.  John's  Church  now  stands.  This  was  the  nucleus  for  a 
spiritual  work  begun  by  Rev.  Solomon  McHenry,  of  the  Centre- 
ville  pastorate,  who  began  preaching  there  in  185 1.  In  the  winter 
of  1852,  he  held  a  series  of  protracted  meetings,  and  in  the  spring 
of  that  year  organized  a  congregation.  Most  of  the  members 
of  this  congregation  had  a  membership  in  the  Lutheran  Church 
of  Somerset,  Pa.,  so  Rev.  McHenry  requested  Rev.  Babb  to  come 
718 


MT.  ZION,  SCALP  LEVEL 


and  preach  to  them,  which  he  refused  to  do.  Preparations  were 
then  made  in  1853,  to  build  a  church  under  the  pastoral  care  of 
Rev.  McHenry,  who  served  them  until  April  1,  1854.  Then  Rev. 
Martin  M.  Bachtel,  whose  health  failed  while  serving  the  McCon- 
nellsville  charge,  in  Fulton  County,  moved  to  Somerset  to  assist 
his  father-in-law,  Mr.  Graff,  in  the  lumber  enterprise.  He  was 
requested  to  preach  occasionally  to  this  congregation,  which  he 
did  until  November,  1854.  In  the  meanwhile  Mr.  Graff  donated 
a  lot  of  ground  for  a  church  building  and  graveyard  on  which 
the  building  was  begun,  but  the  work  on  it  moved  very  slowly  and 
was  not  finished  until  in  1855.  It  was  dedicated  by  Rev.  John  K. 
Bricker,  of  the  Centreville  charge,  on  September  30,  1855,  as 
St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church.  The  building  is  one- 
story  frame,  measuring  32  by  44  feet,  and  erected  at  a  cost  of 
about  $800.  The  following  pastors  served  this  congregation  in 
the  order  of  their  succession:  Revs.  Solomon  McHenry  (Cen- 
treville charge),  1851-1854;  Martin  M.  Bachtel  (Centreville 
charge),  1854-1854;  John  K.  Bricker  (Centreville  charge),  1854- 
1857;  John  Tomlinson  (Centreville  charge),  1857-1861  ;  Charles 
Young  (Centreville  charge),  1862-1864;  Josiah  Zimmerman 
(Centreville  charge),  1865-1869;  Reuben  Smith  (Centreville 
charge),  1 870-1 875  ;  John  N.  Unruh  (Centreville  charge),  1876- 
1881  ;  John  Buehler  Shoup  (Rockwood  charge),  1882-1883  ;  L.  N. 
Fleck  (Rockwood  charge),  1885-1888;  William  H.  Settlemyer 
(Rockwood  charge),  1888-1892. 

The  congregation  being  unable  to  meet  the  payment  of  the 
debt  they  owed  the  pastor  the  matter  was  referred  to  Con- 
ference, which  raised  the  amount  and  paid  the  debt.  While 
occasional  services  were  held  after  this  the  building  was  neglected 
and  the  congregation  has  ceased  to  exist  entirely,  and  the  build- 
ing is  rapidly  deteriorating. 


SCALP  LEVEL  CHARGE 

Rev.  Simon  Snyder,  Pastor 

Mt.  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

scalp  level,  pa. 

In  the  year  1844,  Rev-  Samuel  Lawson  began  to  preach  the 

gospel  in  the  homes  of  Jacob  Seese,  Jacob  Custer  and  others. 

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A  catechetical  class  was  organized  and  the  members  of  the  same 
confirmed  that  fall. 

During  the  year  1845,  Rev.  Cobb,  of  Johnstown,  Pa.,  preached 
once  a  month,  after  which  for  about  ten  years  there  were  only 
occasional  services  conducted  by  different  clergymen. 

In  the  year   1856,  Rev.  Lewis  J.  Bell  came  on  the  field  and 


MT.    ZION    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    SCALP   LEVEL,    PA. 

preached  regularly  at  the  homes  of  Jacob  Seese  and  John  E. 
Seese,  and  organized  Mt.  Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church. 
The  organization  was  composed  of  the  following  charter  mem- 
bers :  Jacob  Seese,  Sophia  Seese,  John  E.  Seese,  Hannah  Seese, 
|.  Adam  Fulmer,  Sophia  Fulmer,  Melchoir  Seese,  Elizabeth 
Seese,  Philip  Seese,  Susannah  Seese,  Peter  Statler,  Josephine 
720 


MT.  ZION,  SCALP  LEVEL 


Statler,  Andrew  Shaffer,  Sarah  Shaffer,  Daniel  Shaffer,  Elizabeth 
Shaffer,  Daniel  Bordner,  Charlotte  Bordner,  Peter  Ott,  Anna 
Ott,  Theodore  P.  Bantley,  Susan  Shaffer,  Henry  Berkey,  Polly 
Berkey,  Christian  Kaltenbaugh,  Catherine  Kaltenbaugh,  Reuben 
Miller,  Martha  Miller,  Daniel  Miller,  Elizabeth  Miller,  Peter 
Naugle,  Anna  Naugle,  Charles  Ott,  Mary  Ott,  Susannah  Eash, 
Emanuel  J.  Seese,  Rachel  Seese,  Jacob  Straub,  Margaret  Straub. 
Emanuel  Seese,  Sr.,  and  Elizabeth  Seese. 

The  first  church  council  was  composed  of  the  following : 
Elders.:  Jacob  Seese,  Peter  Statler;  deacons,  John  E.  Seese, 
Daniel  Border. 

Catechetical  work  was  begun  and  steps  taken  for  the  building 
of  a  house  of  worship. 


JOHN    E.    SEESE    AND    HANNAH,    HIS    WIFE,    SCALP    LEVEL    CHARGE 

In  October  of  1856,  the  congregation  celebrated  the  first  com- 
munion in  the  new  church,  a  frame  building,  26  by  36  feet,  at 
which  time  the  catechumens  were  confirmed.  This  was  done 
before  the  building  was  entirely  finished,  which  was  not  till  1858. 
The  building  stood  at  the  junction  of  the  Foustwell  and  Shade 
Furnace  Road.  The  lot  for  church  and  cemetery  was  donated 
by  Jacob  Seese.  The  following  ministers  were  called  successively 
to  this  field : 

Rev.  Lewis  J.  Bell,  1856  to  1858;  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman.  1858  to 
1863;  Rev.  P.  Sheeder,  1864  to  1867;  Rev.  A.  R.  Height,  1867  to 
1869;  Rev.  David  Stuft,  1872  to  1873;  Rev.  John  A.  Nuner, 
1873  to  1875 ;  Rev.  David  Stuft,  1875  to  1882  ;  Rev.  E.  M.  Hubler, 
February  1.  1883,  to  October  26,  1885;  Rev.  J.  E.  Lerch,  Febru- 

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ary  4,  1886,  to  January  22,  1889;  Rev.  A.  B.  Erhard,  February 
10,  1889,  to  March  12,  1893;  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem,  November  17, 
1893,  to  November  17,  1898;  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross,  March,  1899,  to 
April,  1899;  Rev.  P.  B.  Fasold,  January  6,  1900,  to  April  7,  1901  ; 
Rev.  J.  W.  Weeter  (supply),  May  to  October,  1901 ;  Rev.  L.  A. 
Bush,  March  23,  1902,  to  October  5,  1903 ;  Rev.  D.  S.  Hafer, 
June  1,  1904,  to  October  17,  1909;  Rev.  J.  A.  Richter,  June  4, 
1910  to  February,  1912;  Rev.  Simon  Snyder,  May,  1912  — . 

The  pastors  up  to  and  including  Rev.  Hubler  used  the  German 
and  English  alternately.    Most  of  them  were  faithful  God-fearing 


REV.    DAVID    STUFFT,    SCALP    LEVEL    CHARGE 

men  and  had  some  share  in  the  congregation's  splendid  develop- 
ment. Rev.  Kuhlman  seems  to  have  been  the  man  who  gave 
stability  to  the  pastorate. 

During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Erhard  the  church  building  was 
remodeled,  a  tower  being  built  to  it,  in  which  was  placed  a  500- 
pound  bell. 

From  the  beginning  until  the  year  1871,  this  congregation 
belonged  to  the  Wilmore  charge.  At  this  time  the  Davidsville 
pastorate  was  formed  and  Mt.  Zionwas  made  a  part  of  it,  but  in 
1872,  Mt.  Zion  congregation  was  received  into  the  Alleghany 
722 


MT.  ZION,  SCALP  LEVEL 


Synod  as  a  part  of  the  Scalp  Level  charge  in  which  blessed 
fellowship  it  still  abides. 

In  the  year  1896  or  1897,  a  lot  in  town  was  purchased,  and 
preparations  made  for  the  building  of  a  new  buff  brick  veneer 
church  edifice.  The  same  was  in  due  time  erected,  which  will 
always  be  an  ornament  to  the  town  of  Scalp  Level  or  Paint 
Borough. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  in  July,  1898,  by  the  Rev.  H.  C. 
Salem,  pastor,  assisted  by  Rev.  J.  H.  Barb,  D.D.,  who  preached 
the  sermon. 

The  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem  having  resigned,  the  dedication  took 
place  during  the  brief  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross  on  July 


JOHN   WEAVER  AND  CATHERINE   WEAVER,,  HIS   WIFE,   SCALP  LEVEL  CHARGE 


2,  1899.     Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  Rev.  G.  W.  Anschutz  and 
Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  preached  the  sermons. 

The  building  has  an  auditorium  40  by  49  feet,  and  a  Sunday 
school  room,  32  by  34  feet.  The  debt  was  finally  cancelled  during 
Rev.  Hafer's  pastorate. 

This  was  a  great  day  in  Mt.  Zion's  congregation  and  marks  an 
epoch  in  it.  The  congregation  has  steadily  increased  so  that  at 
this  writing  we  now  number  350  baptized  members,  319  confirmed 
and  225  communicant  members. 

The  present  church  council  is  :  Simon  Snyder,  Pastor ;  Elders, 
H.  W.  Barnhart,  H.  E.  Strunk,  L.  E.  Wirick,  S.  P.  Naugle,  S.  E. 
Claycomb,  Dr.  O.  J.  Shank ;  Deacons,  Jacob  Weaver,  J.  S.  High, 
Irwin  Barnhart,  G.  A.  Ott,  Jonas  J.  Weaver,  Daniel  Ott. 

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The  officers  of  the  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary 
Society  are  as  follows :  President,  Mrs.  W.  A.  Weaver ;  Secre- 
tary, Mrs.  E.  J.  Wissinger ;  Treasurer,  Miss  Emma  Faust. 

The  officers  of  the  Mission  Band  are :  President,  Olive 
Weaver;  Superintendent,  Mrs.  E.  J.  Wissinger;  Treasurer, 
Florence  Strunk ;  Secretary,  Bertha  Hoffman. 

The  first  Sunday  school  of  the  congregation  was  organized  in 
the  spring  of  i860,  with  E.  J.  Seese  as  its  first  superintendent. 
It  was  conducted  as  follows :  Song,  prayer,  reading  of  the 
Scripture.  The  children  were  taught 'to  read  and  spell,  while 
the  older  ones  read  alternately  from  the  word  of  God,  closing 
with  song  and  prayer. 

In  1872,  the  question  book  system  was  introduced  which  was 
in  the  form  of  a  catechism,  and  was  used  about  two  years, 
after  which  the  lesson  leaves  and  books  were  installed.  Up  to 
this  time  the  school  was  held  as  a  union  Sunday  school,  open  six 
months  of  each  year.  It  united  with  the  Evangelical  x\ssociation, 
1874-1876,  using  David  C.  Cook's  literature. 

In  1876,  the  Lutheran  Sunday  school,  with  Lutheran  helps, 
was  organized  as  an  Evergreen  school,  which  organization  has 
been  in  effect  ever  since. 

Since  1889,  a  Sunday  school  association  of  the  schools  of  the 
charge  has  met  semi-annually  to  the  great  benefit  of  all  the 
workers. 

Mt.  Zion  Sabbath  school  has  grown  from  a  small  beginning  to 
a  school  of  which  any  pastor  may  be  proud,  holding  the  banner 
of  the  Sunday  school  association  of  the  Conference  for  eight 
years  for  the  best  average  attendance  and  contribution  to  missions. 
It  is  equipped  and  manned  as  well  as  any  school  of  the  County, 
having  a  Cradle  Roll,  a  Home  Department,  six  organized  classes 
and  a  total  membership  of  nearly  500.  Officers:  Superintendent, 
G.  A.  Ott;  superintendent  of  elementary  department,  Jonas  J 
Weaver;  secretary,  Edna  Strunk;  treasurer,  Mrs.  Catherine 
Weaver. 

It  is  active  in  special  mission  work,  having  educated  a  student 
in  India  and  contributed  $250  to  the  Gretna  Mission  Fund, 
Nebraska. 


724 


DUN  MEYER,  ELTON 


Dunmeyer  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

ELTON,    PA. 

The  Dunmeyer  congregation  was  organized  by  the  Rev.  Peter 
Sahm,  October  29,  1849,  with  the  following  thirty  charter  mem- 
bers :  Adam  Lefler,  Lewis  Dunmeyer,  John  Fried  Brenner,  John 
Seese,  Adam  Folmer,  Fred  Keiper,  Adam  Strayer,  John  Paul, 
Daniel  Stineman,  Abraham  Keiper,  Fred  Feuder,  Peter  Statler, 
George  Helsel,  Jr.,  Sarah  Stineman,  Elizabeth  Keiper,  Mary 
Feuder,  Savilla  Fried  Brenner,  Rebecca  Paul,  Elizabeth  Feuder, 


DUNMEYER  LUTHERAN  CHURCH,  ELTON,  PA. 


Mary  Folmer,  Mary  Keiper,  Jacobina  Statler,  Sophia  Helsel, 
Philip  Meyer,  Jacobina  Meyer,  Wendel  Meyer,  John  Statler, 
Michael  Nipps,  Joseph  Reynold  and  Peter  Gillman. 

The  first  church  council  elected  by  the  newly  organized  con- 
gregation were :  Elders,  Lewis  Dunmeyer,  Adam  Strayer ;  dea- 
cons, John  Paul,  Daniel  Stineman.  A  house  of  worship  was 
erected  on  a  plot  of  ground  procured  from  Lewis  Dunmeyer. 
From  the  records  the  Rev.  Sahm  served  until  about  1853.     For  a 

725 


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year  or  more  the  church  was  vacant.  The  pulpit  was  supplied  by 
various  brethren.  In  October,  1855,  the  Rev.  Lewis  J.  Bell 
accepted  a  call  to  the  pastorate  and  served  it  until  November, 
1856.  On  April  15,  1859,  tne  Rev-  J-  F-  Kuhlman  accepted  a  call 
to  the  pastorate.  From  this  time  the  Dunmeyer  Church  has 
been  a  part  of  the  Scalp  Level  pastorate  and  served  by  its  pastors. 

In  the  year  1896  or  1897,  while  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem  was  pastor, 
a  movement  was  launched  to  have  the  Dunmeyer  congregation 
move  its  house  of  worship  from  the  Dunmeyer  farm  to  the 
growing  town  of  Elton.  After  much  discussion  this  move  was 
consummated.  A  lot  was  purchased  in  Elton  and  a  house  of 
worship  costing  $2,400  was  erected. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  June  12,  1898.  Rev.  J.  R.  Dimm, 
D.D.,  preached  the  sermon  and  assisted  the  pastor  in  the  laying 
of  the  corner-stone. 

Rev.  H.  C.  Salem  having  resigned  and  departed  the  dedication 
took  place  during  the  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  G.  D.  Gross  in  the 
spring  of  1899. 

Rev.  William  Spangler  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  Rev. 
G.  K.  Allen,  of  Hooversville,  assisted  the  pastor  in  a  week's 
service  previous  to  the  dedication.  The  church  was  dedicated 
free  of  debt. 

The  old  church  was  sold  to  the  Mennonites  who  took  the 
material  and  erected  a  house  of  worship  near  Salix. 

At  present  the  Dunmeyer  congregation  continues  to  do  effective 
work.  Its  communicant  membership  numbers  seventy-five;  con- 
firmed members,  117;  baptized  members,  133.  The  present  offi- 
cers of  the  council  are:  Pastor,  Simon  Snyder;  elders,  John 
Bloom,  J.  F.  Wissinger,  G.  F.  Ickes ;  deacons,  J.  H.  Ickes,  Stan- 
ley Ickes,  Earle  Helsel.  The  officers  of  the  Sunday  school  are : 
Superintendent,  D.  C.  Miller;  Secretary,  Bertha  Miller;  Treas- 
urer, J.  H.  Ickes. 

Grace  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregation 
rum  mel,  PA. 
In  the  year  1903,  a  church  was  erected  at  Rummel  during  the 
pastorate  of  the  Rev.  L.  A.  Bush.     This  church  was  used  for 
Sunday  school  purposes  and  as  a  preaching  station  in  connection 
with  the  Scalp  Level  pastorate. 
726 


GRACE,  RUM  MEL 


In  May,  191 3,  during  the  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  Simon  Snyder, 
an  organization  was  effected  with  fifty-four  charter  members. 
The  name  of  the  church  was  changed  from  the  Rummel  Lutheran 
Church  to  Grace  Lutheran  Church.  The  organization  was 
effected  May  4,  1913,  with  special  services.  The  Rev.  H.  S. 
Rhoads,  of  Johnstown,  assisted  the  pastor  in  this  service. 

During  the  fall  of  191 5,  the  church  was  greatly  enlarged  and 
beautified.  A  new  steam  heating  plant  was  installed,  electric 
lights  installed  and  everything  to  make  the  church  beautiful  and 
useful    was    done.      The    cost    of    reconstruction    amounted    to 


GRACE   LUTHERAN    CHURCH,   RUMMEL,   PA. 

$1,507.60.  This  amount,  with  an  excess,  was  provided  on  the 
day  of  rededication.  This  service  of  rededication  was  held 
November  21,  191 5.  The  Rev.  H.  S.  Rhoads  preached  both 
morning  and  evening. 

Sunday,  February  13,  1916,  a  Young  People's  Society  of 
Christian  Endeavor  was  organized.  This  society  has  been  doing 
excellent  work.  Grace  Church  has  a  weekly  prayer  meeting 
conducted  by  the  church  officers. 

The  Sunday  school  is  doing  excellent  work,  numbering  more 
than   100  members.     Its  present  officers  are :     Superintendent, 

727 


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L.  L.  Faust;  secretary,  Oscar  Kellar;  treasurer,  D.  E.  Penrod. 

The  church  numbers  seventy  communicant  members,  ninety- 
three  confirmed  and  ninety-nine  baptized  members.  Its  present 
officers  are :  Elders,  L.  L.  Faust  and  William  Petry ;  deacons, 
J.  M.  Rummel  and  W.  C.  Knavel. 

Grace  Church  was  received  as  a  part  of  the  Scalp  Level  pas- 
torate and  also  admitted  to  the  Alleghany  Synod. 

Trinity  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

windber,  pa. 

(Non-existent) 

For  over  four  years  the  members  of  the  Trinity  Lutheran 
organization  held  Sunday  school  and  church  services  in  the 
Swedish  Lutheran  Church. 

The  congregation  was  organized  in  the  old  Y.  M.  C.  A.  build- 
ing the  first  Sunday  of  November,  1905,  and  the  Sunday  school 
the  second  Sunday  of  January,  1906.  Early  in  the  summer  the 
place  of  worship  was  changed  to  the  Odd  Fellows'  building  over 
the  post-office,  and  in  the  fall  of  the  following  year  to  the  Swedish 
Lutheran  Church. 

The  congregation  consisted  of  twenty-five  members.  W.  S. 
Otto  was  installed  as  deacon  and  W.  H.  Yost  as  elder  by  the 
Rev.  Samuel  Krider,  the  first  pastor,  who  served  over  one  year. 

Rev.  Krider's  successor  was  the  Rev.  C.  E.  Smith,  of  (Mox- 
ham)  Johnstown.  He  was  succeeded  by  the  Rev.  C.  W. 
Anschutz,  late  pastor  of  Johnstown  Trinity  Church. 

From  the  fall  of  1910,  the  Rev.  J.  A.  Richter,  pastor  of 
the  Scalp  Level  charge,  held  services  every  two  weeks.  Dur- 
ing this  time  the  congregation  was  received  as  a  part  of 
Mt.  Zion  Lutheran  Church,  Scalp  Level,  Pa.,  and  since  then  the 
members  of  the  same  have  taken  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's 
Supper  with  Mt.  Zion. 

The  first  officers  of  the  Sunday  school  were :  \Y.  H.  Yost, 
superintendent ;  Philip  Erhard,  assistant ;  Miss  E.  McLuckie, 
secretary;  G.  P.  Vance,  assistant;  Nellie  Erhard,  treasurer;  Mrs. 
Keefe  Aldstadt,  assistant,  and  Mrs.  Willis  Reeser,  librarian. 

This  mission  was  discontinued  August  8,   191 1,  the  members 
uniting  with  Mt.  Zion,  Scalp  Level. 
728 


MT.    C ARM EL,    OGLETOWN 


Mt.  Carmel  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

ogletown.,  pa. 

Sketch  by  Rev.  J.  A.  Richter 

The  union  Sunday  school  which  was  "the  forerunner  of  the 
Lutheran  Church  of  Ogletown"'  was  organized  through  the  lead- 
ership of  Mr.  E.  J.  Seese,  the  pioneer  Sunday  school  worker  of 
this  charge.  To  him  belongs  the  credit  of  organizing  the  first 
schools  at  both  Scalp  Level  and  Elton  from  which  "mothers" 
all  the  other  schools  of  Scalp  Level  and  Elton  have  sprung. 

Brother  Seese  is  a  venerable  patriarch  in  Sunday  school  work. 
Having  passed  four  score  years  he  is  still  actively  engaged  in 
the  home  school  of  Ogletown.  This  school  was  started  in  the 
year  1879,  and  has  since  been  conducted  as  a  union  school.  The 
Mt.  Carmel  Lutheran  congregation  was  organized  August  20, 
1896,  and  at  once  it  was  decided  to  erect  a  house  of  worship. 

The  corner-stone  was  laid  by  the  pastor,  Rev.  H.  C.  Salem, 
assisted  by  Revs.  Young,  Courtney  Bergstresser  and  Fleck.  The 
dedication  took  place  September  12,  1897.  Rev.  Brown  preached 
the  dedicatory  sermon.  This  church  edifice  is  comfortable  and 
commodious,  and  enjoys  the  distinction  of  being  the  only  church 
in  Ogletown  that  has  a  tower  and  a  bell  to  call  the  people  to  the 
house  of  God. 

The  following  ministers  supplied  Ogletown :  Revs.  Stuft, 
Gruver,  Walterick,  Beaver,  Unruh,  Salem,  Courtney,  Deloe, 
Hafer  and  Richter.  For  years  a  small  debt  had  been  resting  on  the 
congregation  which  was  liquidated  by  the  help  of  the  congrega- 
tions of  the  Somerset  County  conference. 


SHANKSVILLE  PASTORATE 

Rev.  C.  E.  Berkey,  Pastor 

Trinity   Evangelical   Lutheran    Church 

shanksville,  pa. 

This  congregation  was  organized  of  members  largely  of  the 

Glade  Church  in  1849,  by  Rev.  Charles  Young,  of  Berlin.     An 

acre  of  ground  for  a  building  was  deeded  by  John  Speicher  for  a 

union — Lutheran  and  Reformed — house.    It  was  dedicated  in  the 

fall  of  the  same  year.     It  was  the  first  church  built  in  Shanks- 

ville. 

729 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Rev.  Young  held  his  first  communion,  May,  1850,  when  sixty- 
three  names  are  recorded  in  the  church  book.  Rev.  S.  B.  Lawson 
held  spring  and  fall  communions  during  1852. 

The  following  ministers  served  from  Berlin :  Rev.  Elias  Fair, 
July,  1852,  to  November  9,  1856;  Rev.  Philip  Sheeder,  November, 
1856,  to  April  10,  1864;  Rev.  J.  Winecoff,  1864,  to  April  15, 
1872;  Rev.  A.  M.  Strauss,  April  22,  1872,  to  April  22,  1875; 
Rev.  J.  W.  Poffmberger.  July  11,  1875,  to  July  11,  1882. 

The  first  Christmas  exercise  ever  held  in  the  village  was  given 
during  this  pastorate  by  the  Lutheran  Sunday  school. 

Monday,  July  9,  1877,  the  corner-stone  of  the  new  Lutheran 
church  was  laid,  the  services  being  held  in  the  union  church. 
Two  sermons  were  preached  by  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad,  D.D.,  editor, 
Lutheran  Observer,  one  English,  and  in  the  afternoon,  one  Ger- 
man. Rev.  John  Brubaker,  D.D.,  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch  and  Rev. 
A.  M.  Whetstone  were  present  and  assisted  the  pastor. 

May  23,  1880,  was  the  day  of  dedication.  Rev.  H.  L.  Baugher. 
D.D.,  of  Gettysburg  College,  preached  the  sermon. 

The  church  was  65  by  37  feet,  two-story  brick,  with  tower  112 
feet  high.  In  this  was  a  2,000-pound  bell.  The  interior  was  finished 
in  walnut,  walls  frescoed,  floor  carpeted,  circular  pews,  art  win- 
dows, pulpit,  font,  reading  desk,  all  complete  and  beautiful.  The 
building  committee  was  Charles  L.  Baltzer,  John  Speicher  and 
Josiah  J.  Walker. 

November  29,  1885,  the  congregation  voted  to  become  a  part 
of  the  Friedens  charge,  to  which  it  belonged  till  1894,  when  it 
united  with  Glade,  Roxbury  and  Buckstown,  forming  the  Shanks- 
ville  pastorate. 

These  pastors  followed:  Rev.  J.  L.  Buck,  May  17,  1894  to 
November,  1895;  Rev.  J.  A.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  September  15,  1896. 
to  July,  1898;  Rev.  M.  S.  Romig,  November,  1898,  to  March, 
1902 ;  Rev.  W.  L.  Remsberg,  December,  1902,  to  December,  1903. 
July  4,  1903,  a  severe  thunder  storm  passed  over  the  village, 
and  the  tower  was  struck  and  church  burned.  It  was  not  insured. 
The  strength  of  the  tower  resisted  the  efforts  of  block  and  tackle 
to  pull  it  down.  All  the  contents,  the  beautiful  chandelier 
excepted,  were  saved,  and  also  the  parsonage  near,  through  the 
heroic  efforts  of  the  people.  Mr.  C.  A.  Brant  immediately  offered 
to  donate  a  chandelier  to  a  new  church  to  replace  the  one  he  had 
730 


GLADE,  STONY  CREEK  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  CO. 

given  to  the  building  burned.  Thus  encouraged  an  effort  was 
made  to  rebuild  yet  that  year  but  failed.  The  corner-stone  was 
laid  in  1904  and  an  effort  made  to  dedicate,  January  5,  1905. 
Rev.  R.  S.  Patterson  preached  a  dedication  sermon,  Sunday 
morning;  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney,  Saturday  evening,  and  Rev. 
J.  A.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  of  Lilly,  Sunday  evening. 

But  an  unusually  severe  snowstorm  had  so  shut  the  roads  that 
few  people  could  attend,  and  the  efforts  of  Rev.  J.  F.  Shearer  and 
the  visiting  pastors  to  raise  the  remaining  debt  failed.  A  second 
attempt  was  made  May,  1905,  and  the  church  then  dedicated  free 
of  debt.  The  building  is  one-story  brick,  with  a  Sunday  school 
annex,  is  large  and  beautiful  though  not  so  fine  as  the  one 
destroyed.  The  building  committee :  Edward  Lowry,  Charles 
Landis  and  Daniel  Schrock. 

October  9,  1905,  Rev.  W.  R.  Stahl,  who  became  pastor  May  29, 
1904,  was  called  to  the  company  of  the  redeemed  in  glory.  Sister 
Anna,  of  the  Deaconess  Home,  served  as  nurse.  He  had  endeared 
himself  to  the  people  through  his  earnest  work  and  interest  in 
their  behalf,  and  his  death  was  greatly  lamented.  Services  were 
conducted  in  the  church  he  so  lately  had  dedicated  by  Revs.  R.  L. 
Patterson,  W.  H.  B.  Carney  and  Charles  Lambert,  and  at  Hays 
Reformed  Church,  where  he  was  buried,  a  sermon  was  preached 
by  Rev.  R.  S.  Patterson  on  2  Tim.  4 :  7. 

May  20,  1906,  Rev.  L.  M.  Daubenspeck  came  from  the  semi- 
nary at  Selinsgrove  and  served  with  much  success  as  pastor. 

Rev.  M.  L.  Schmucker  served  as  pastor  from  January,  1912,  to 
January  1,  1917. 

The  present  pastor,  Rev.  C.  E.  Berkey,  began  his  labor  May  1, 
1917. 

Glade  Evangelical  Lutheran   Church 

stony  creek  township,  somerset  co.,  pa. 
Sketch  prepared  by  Pastor  Daubenspeck 
This  congregation  was  organized  some  time  about  the  beginning 
of  the  nineteenth  century,  the  exact  date  being  unknown.  There 
is,  however,  a  record  in  existence  showing  baptisms  and  other 
church  services  in  this  congregation  as  early  as  January,  18 13. 
The  minister  then  preaching  at  this  place  was  Rev.  Earnest  H. 
Tiedeman,  pastor  of  the  Berlin  charge.    It  is  generally  supposed 

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there  was  preaching  in  this  vicinity  prior  to  this  date  by  the 
Berlin  pastors,  of  which,  however,  we  have  no  record. 

Since  1813,  the  records  show  that  this  congregation  had  regular 
preaching  from  the  Berlin  pastors,  and  this  congregation  was 
for  a  time  part  of  the  Berlin  pastorate.  The  record  of  the  pastors 
of  the  Berlin  charge  who  have  served  in  this  congregation  are  as 
follows : 

Earnest  H.  Tiedeman,  from  1812  to  1819;  Jacob  Crigler,  from 
1819  to  1834;  George  Leiter,  from  1834  to  1835;  Charles  Reese, 
from  1836  to  1840;  Lewis  Gustiniani,  from  1841  to  1842;  Charles 
Reese,  from  1842  to  1843;  Jesse  Winecoff,  from  1843  to  1846; 
Charles  Young,  from  1846  to  1851  ;  Eli  Fair,  from  1852  to  1856; 
Philip  Sheeder,  from  1856  to  1864;  Jesse  Winecoff,  from  1864 
to  1872;  Abraham  M.  Strauss,  from  1872  to  1875;  John  W. 
Poffinberger,  from  1875  to  1885  ;  Charles  B.  Gruver,  from  1886 
to  January  1,  1893. 

There  is  a  record  of  one  baptism  in  the  congregation  by  Rev. 
Frederick  William  Lange,  April  11,  181 1,  which  is  the  earliest 
record  concerning  this  congregation.  This  congregation  was 
generally  known  as  Stony  Creek  Lutheran  congregation  and  first 
worshiped  in  a  log  schoolhouse  about  three-fourths  of  a  mile 
east  of  the  present  church  building  called  "Manges  Schoolhouse." 
A  portion  of  land  for  the  use  of  the  Lutheran  and  Reformed 
congregations  conjointly  was  presented  by  Jacob  Mosholder  for 
church  purposes.  Upon  this  piece  of  ground  a  union  church  was 
built  about  the  year  1820.  The  first  communion  recorded  as 
being  held  in  this  union  church  was  by  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler, 
October  28,  1820.  There  is  no  record  existing  showing  when 
this  church  was  built,  but  as  it  was  built  by  Rev.  Jacob  Crigler 
it  must  have  been  in  1 819- 1820.  The  church  was  a  log  building, 
34  by  34  feet ;  it  was  afterwards  weatherboarded  and  beyond  its 
ancient  appearance  it  remained  in  a  remarkable  state  of  preserva- 
tion until  torn  down  to  make  way  for  a  new  structure.  In  this 
church  the  Lutheran  and  the  Reformed  worshiped  regularly 
for  many  years.  This  church  was  dedicated  St.  Mary's  Union 
Church.  It  stood  on  the  highest  point  of  the  lot  on  the  west  side 
near  the  road  leading  to  Berlin ;  the  same  ground  is  now  occupied 
for  a  cemetery.  In  the  spring  of  1887,  the  Lutheran  congrega- 
tion at  a  congregational  meeting  called  by  the  pastor,  "Rev. 
732 


GLADE,  STONY  CREEK  TOWNSHIP,  SOMERSET  CO. 

Charles  B.  Gruver,"  decided  to  build  a  church  for  themselves. 
They  accordingly  purchased  a  half  acre  of  ground  of  Mrs. 
Rachel  Gisel,  "widow,"  and  her  son,  George  Gisel,  and  his  wife, 
Alary  Gisel,  for  the  sum  of  $25.  This  lot  joins  the  former  lot 
"presented  by  Jacob  Mosholder,"  being  separated  by  the  road 
leading  to  Berlin,  being  a  corner  lot  west  of  the  Berlin  road  and 
north  of  the  road  leading  to  Shanksville.  At  a  congregational 
meeting  Alexander  Walker,  William  M.  Schrock  and  Abraham 
Carver  were  chosen  to  form  the  building  committee  of  the  new 
church  and  steps  were  at  once  taken  to  contract  and  put  the  work 
in  operation. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  new  church  was  laid  on  Saturday  at 
ten  o'clock  a.  m.,  June  11,  1887,  the  following  ministers  being 
present  from  other  charges:  Rev.  S.  Stoufer,  of  Jennertown; 
Rev.  A.  Sell,  of  Stoyestown;  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch,  of  Friedens.  Rev. 
C.  B.  Gruver,  "the  pastor,"  conducted  the  opening  service,  read 
the  first  hymn,  the  liturgical  service  and  laid  the  corner-stone. 
Rev.  J.  J.  Welch  read  the  Scripture  lesson,  offered  the  prayer 
and  dismissed  the  congregation  with  the  benediction.  Rev.  S. 
Stoufer  preached  the  sermon  and  read  the  third  hymn.  Rev.  A. 
Sell  read  the  second  hymn  and  offered  the  second  prayer.  The 
services  were  conducted  in  the  old  church,  except  what  was  neces- 
sary for  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone  according  to  the  form  in 
our  liturgy.  The  articles  put  in  the  corner-stone  are  as  follows : 
The  Lutheran  Observer,  of  June  10,  1887 ;  the  Somerset  Herald, 
of  June  8,  1887;  the  Somerset  Democrat,  of  June  8,  1887;  the 
Berlin  Record,  of  June  11,  1887;  the  Prohibition  Era,  for  May 
of  1887;  the  Lutheran  Missionary  Journal,  for  June,  1887;  the 
Augsburg  Teacher,  for  June,  1887;  the  Lutheran  Sunday  School 
Herald,  for  June,  1887;  the  Augsburg  Lesson  Book,  Second 
Quarter,  1887;  a  copy  of  the  minutes  of  the  Alleghany  Synod, 
for  1886;  Lutheran  Almanac,  for  1887;  the  Mcycrsdale  Com- 
mercial, of  June  9,  1887;  also  a  short  history  of  the  congrega- 
tion, the  names  of  all  the  members  and  the  amount  each  one 
had  contributed  for  the  building  up  to  that  time. 

The  church  is  a  frame  building,  34  by  50  feet,  with  recess  for 
the  pulpit  and  a  vestibule  in  the  tower  attached,  making  the  entire 
length  63  feet.  The  ceiling  is  Gothic,  paneled  with  chestnut 
and  having  false  rafters.     The  wainscoting  is  of  cherry  and  ash. 

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The  pews  have  curved  backs  and  seats,  and  also  are  made  of 
cherry  and  ash.  The  pulpit  and  the  pulpit  chairs  are  made  from 
walnut.  The  windows  are  all  memorial,  containing  rolled  cathe- 
dral stained  glass.  The  inside  finish  is  all  in  the  natural  wood 
color.  The  tower,  which  contains  a  1,500-pound  McShane  bell,  is 
surmounted  by  a  beautiful  and  well-proportioned  steeple. 

The  church  was  dedicated  on  Sunday  morning,  November  20, 
1887.  Rev.  J.  F.  Shearer  preached  the  dedicatory  sermon.  The 
pastor  made  a  statement  showing  that  it  was  necessary  to  secure 
$600  in  order  that  the  church  might  be  free  from  debt  and  the 
response  of  the  people  was  the  raising  of  $725,  sufficient  to  pay 
all  indebtedness  and  also  to  purchase  an  organ.  The  entire  cost 
of  the  church,  including  the  bell,  chandelier,  carpet,  pulpit,  chairs, 
pews,  etc.,  amounted  to  about  $2,650. 

On  Sunday  morning,  December  25,  1887,  the  pastor,  Rev.  C.  B. 
Gruver,  addressed  the  children  of  the  church,  after  which  pre- 
liminary steps  were  taken  to  organize  a  Lutheran  Sunday  school. 
A  constitution  was  adopted  and  officers  were  elected  as  fol- 
lows :  William  M.  Schrock  and  Ira  G.  Carver,  superintendents ; 
Michael  J.  Snyder,  secretary.  The  organization  was  fully  effected 
on  Sunday  morning,  January  1,  1888,  when  the  first  session  of 
school  was  held  in  the  new  church  and  known  as  the  Glade 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Sunday  school.  In  1893-1894,  this  con- 
gregation, uniting  with  Shanksville,  Roxbury  and  Buckstown, 
formed  the  Shanksville  charge  and  called  the  Rev.  J.  L.  Buck 
to  become  their  pastor.  He  served  from  May  17,  1894,  to  No- 
vember, 1895.  Since  that  time  other  pastors  have  served  as 
follows:  Rev.  James  A.  Dunlap,  from  September  15,  1896,  to 
July,  1898;  Rev.  M.  S.  Romig,  from  November,  1898,  to  March, 
1902 ;  Rev.  W.  L.  Remsburg,  from  December,  1902,  to  December, 
1903.  The  Rev.  William  R.  Stahl  was  called  to  the  Shanksville 
pastorate  and  assumed  his  labors  as  pastor  May  29,  1904,  and 
remained  their  pastor  until  the  time  of  his  death  in  the  fall  of 
1905.  He  was  greatly  loved  and  sincerely  mourned  for  by  his 
people.  The  Rev.  L.  M.  Daubenspeck  began  his  labor  in  this 
congregation  May  20,  1906,  and  continued  to  May  14,  191 1. 
Other  pastors  since  are  given  under  Trinity  of  Shanksville. 


734 


ST.  MA  TTHE IV S, .  ROXB  UR Y 


St.  Matthew's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

roxbury,  somerset  county,  pa. 

History  of  St.  Matthew's  Lutheran  Church  as  Written  by  the 

Rev.  John  IV.  Poffinbcrgcr,  First  Pastor  and 

Founder  of  the  Congregation 

Owing  to  the  fact  that  nearly  fifty  members  of  the  Lutheran 
Church  lived  in  and  around  Roxbury  and  had  from  three  to 
five  miles  to  any  Lutheran  church,  and  that  the  many  children  in 
the  community  did  not  regularly  attend  Sabbath  school  and 
church  anywhere,  it  was  deemed  wise  to  inaugurate  the  erection 
of  a  church  building.  During  the  fall  and  winter  of  1881,  the 
pastor  at  Berlin  in  consultation  with  the  influential  members  of 
the  community  concluded  to  undertake  the  project.  By  mutual 
agreement  of  the  Reitzes,  Divelys,  Boyers,  Spencers  and  Sny- 
ders,  William  M.  Dively,  Peter  Boyer  and  Daniel  Snyder  were 
appointed  trustees.  William  M.  Dively,  Peter  Boyer  and  the 
pastor  commenced  then  the  solicitation  of  funds  for  the  building. 
One-half  acre  of  ground  was  bought  of  Mrs.  Lena  W'alker  for 
the  consideration  of  $18,  and  the  ground  was  surveyed  by  Jona- 
than Homer ;  but  when,  on  the  Monday  following,  the  pastor 
took  Alexander  Brubaker  from  Berlin  to  Roxbury  to  have  the 
deed  signed,  for  as  we  had  intimation  of  opposition  to  the  erec- 
tion of  the  building  (we  thought  we  would  not  proceed  with 
the  building  without  having  deed  for  the  lot),  when  we  reached 
the  home  of  Mrs.  W'alker,  we  found  that  she  had  been  influenced 
not  to  let  us  have  the  lot ;  after  talking,  persuading  and  coaxing 
for  several  hours,  the  pastor  brought  her  to  terms  by  paying  out 
of  his  own  pocket  $7  in  addition  to  the  amount  she  had  agreed 
to  take  for  the  land ;  this  settled  the  matter,  and  on  that  day, 
January  2,  1882,  she  signed  the  deed.  We  now  went  actively 
to  work,  and  by  early  spring  the  wall  was  complete,  frame 
erected,  and  before  the  middle  of  the  summer  the  house  was 
ready  for  the  plasterers.  But  the  work  did  not  proceed  as  rapidly 
as  we  expected,  and  before  we  received  the  window  frames  we 
began  to  fear  that  winter  would  overtake  us  and  intercept  the 
work.  We  were  also  delayed  with  the  glass  until  in  November, 
so  that  the  house  was  only  completed  about  ten  days  before 
Christmas. 

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Christmas  Day,  December  25,  1882,  had  been  duly  announced 
as  the  time  for  the  consecration  of  the  chapel.  During  the  week 
preceding  Christmas  we  held  services  in  the  chapel,  for  we 
desired  to  have  the  people  together  for  worship  before  organiza- 
tion. Rev.  Zinn  and  Rev.  Keener,  also  Rev.  Breitenbaugh,  of 
Berlin  (Reformed)  assisted  me  during  these  meetings.  On  Sat- 
urday, December  23,  we  appointed  a  meeting  for  organization 
and  elected  officers.  We 'organized  with  the  following  twenty- 
nine  members :  Philip  Ling,  Peter  Boyer,  Susanna  Boyer,  Uriah 
Boyer,  Mary  Boyer,  Harvey  Boyer,  Ida  S.  Boyer,  Anna  Stoner, 
Emma  Stoner,  Susan  Hoyle,  Rebecca  Gindlesparker,  Joseph 
Reitz,  William  H.  Reitz,  Henry  A.  Reitz,  Jacob  J.  Reitz,  Eliza- 
beth Schrock,  William  M.  Dively,  George  Mc.  Dively,  Mary  M. 
Dively,  Daniel  Snyder,  Eve  Snyder,  Rebecca  Schrock,  Sarah  M. 
Glessner,  Mary  Spencer,  Emma  Spencer,  John  J.  Ginder,  Alex- 
ander Ware,  Sarah  Ware3  Matilda  Suder  Wellensburg. 

At  the  same  time,  December  23,  1882,  the  following  officers 
were  elected  and  were  duly  installed  in  the  evening  of  the  same 
day :  Elders,  Philip  Ling  and  Peter  Boyer ;  deacons,  William 
Dively,  Daniel  Snyder,  Joseph  Reitz  and  W'illiam  Reitz ;  trustees, 
John  Ginder,  Alexander  Ware  and  Henry  Reitz.  At  a  meeting 
of  the  building  committee  it  was  found  that  the  entire  cost  of 
the  chapel  amounted  to  $1,115.29,  and  that  there  was  a  deficit 
of  $210.44.  On  December  25,  Rev.  A.  M.  Whetstone  preached 
the  dedicatory  sermon,  from  Hab.  2 :  20,  "The  Lord  is  in  His 
holy  temple" ;  after  the  sermon  he  proceeded  in  his  own  wonder- 
ful way  of  collecting  the  deficit,  which  was  not  so  easily  accom- 
plished as  we  had  anticipated;  but  in  due  time  the  amount  was 
raised,  and  also  about  $25  for  Sunday  school  material.  W'ith  a 
glad  heart  the  dedicatory  service  was  read  by  the  pastor  and 
the  congregation  was  dismissed.  On  Sabbath  morning,  Decem- 
ber 31,  the  first  regular  preaching  service  was  held  in  the  chapel, 
the  pastor  preaching  from  Deut.  1 1  :  26.  After  the  preaching 
service  we  proceeded  to  organize  a  Sabbath  school.  The  result 
was  the  forming  of  seven  classes  and  the  appointment  of  teachers 
and  the  election  of  officers.  In  the  meantime  the  money  which 
had  been  so  cheerfully  given  was  taken  by  the  pastor  and  used 
in  the  purchasing  of  one  dozen  Bibles,  ten  Augsburg  Teachers, 
junior  lesson  leaves,  Sunday  School  Heralds,  class  books,  sec- 
736 


ST.  PAUL'S,  BUCKSTOWN 


retary  book  and  thirty  gospel .  hymns.  The  following  officers 
were  elected  by  recommendation  of  the  pastor :  Superintend- 
ents, William  Dively  and  John  Schrock;  assistant  superintend- 
ents, William  Reitz  and  Jacob  Glessner ;  secretary,  Henry  Reitz, 
and  treasurer,  Peter  Boyer. 

The  above  brief  history  of  St.  Matthew's  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  and  Sabbath  school  we  certify  is  correct. 

John  W.  Poffinberger, 
Pastor  of  Berlin  Charge. 

Written  this  day,  January  25,  1883. 

This  congregation  remained  a  part  of  the  Berlin  charge  until 
the  year  1893-1894,  when  it  became  a  part  of  the  Shanksville 
charge. 

The  St.  Paul's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
buckstown,  pa. 

For  a  number  of  years  prior  to  the  year  1888,  a  Lutheran  Sun- 
day school  was  conducted  in  a  vacant  house  at  Buckstown,  Som- 
erset County,  Pa. 

Sometime  during  the  winter  of  1888,  the  matter  of  forming 
a  new  organization  and  building  a  Lutheran  Church  in  the  vil- 
lage was  agitated.  Daniel  W.  Wagner  and  Zachariah  Lambert 
volunteered  to  furnish  the  timber  for  the  lumber  of  the  build- 
ing, and  Charles  W.  Williamson  and  wife  gave  a  very  valuable 
lot  for  the  building.  The  people  of  the  village  and  of  the  sur- 
rounding neighborhood  kindly  manifested  their  interest  by  giv- 
ing their  aid  in  the  cutting  and  hauling  of  the  timber  to  a  nearby 
sawmill,  and  in  the  returning  of  it  to  the  place  of  building.  The 
digging  of  the  foundation,  the  hauling  of  the  stone  and  other 
material  needed  for  the  erection  of  the  house,  was  done  gratui- 
tously. A  public  meeting  was  called  for  the  evening  of  April  6, 
1890.  for  the  purpose  of  organizing  the  new  congregation,  the 
majority  of  them  being  members  belonging  to  the  Shade  congre- 
gation of  the  Hooversville  charge.  The  Rev.  J.  H.  Houseman, 
pastor  of  the  above-named  charge,  was  present  and  presided  at 
the  meeting;  he  also  spoke  of  the  responsibility  that  would  rest 
upon  the  members  forming  the  new  congregation  and  of  the 
influence   it   would   exert  in  the   community.     The   constitution 

737 


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was  read  by  the  secretary,  M.  D.  Reel,  and  after  some  comment, 
was  adopted.  The  following  named  persons  were  elected  and 
installed  as  members  of  the  first  council  in  the  new  congrega- 
tion :  L.  B.  Manges  and  C.  W.  Williamson  for  elders ;  C.  A. 
Wagner,  Elsworth  Ling,  John  Giger  and  C.  W.  Lambert, 
deacons. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  building  was  laid  August  10,  1889, 
and  the  dedication  took  place  July  20,  1890,  Rev.  Shearer  preach- 
ing the  dedicatory  sermon.  The  church  building  is  65  by  35 
feet,  Gothic  in  style,  beautifully  and  tastefully  finished,  at  a  cost 
of  $3,075.42.  For  three  years  the  congregation  was  served  by 
pastors  of  the  Hooversville  charge,  and  in  1893-1894  became  a 
part  of  the  Shanksville  charge. 


SOUTH  FORK  CHARGE, 

Rev.  H.  0.  Reynolds,  Pastor. 

Trinity,  South  Fork,  Pa. 


J.    B.    CUSTER,    ELDER    AND   TREASURER,    TRINITY,    SOUTH    FORK,   PA. 

Mr.  Benjamin  Lester  was  sent  to  Synod  in  1894  as  a  commis- 
sioner from  this  congregation.  A  constitution  was  also  pre- 
738 


TRINITY,  SOUTH  FORK 


sented  here  which  was  approved,  and  the  congregation  was  ad- 
mitted to  Synod.  It  was  made  a  part  of  the  Wilmore  Charge. 
The  membership  at  this  time  was  twenty-one.  It  was  served  by 
Rev.  A.  B.  Erhard,  of  Wilmore,  from  its  organization  to  1897,  the 
time  of  his  death.  Rev.  Erhard,  the  first  pastor,  was  born  at 
Rebersburg,  Center  County,  January  12,  1842.  He  served  three 
years  in  the  war,  then  entered  Susquehanna  University.  His 
other  charges  were  Fisherville,  Rossville,  Muncy  Creek,  and 
Scalp  Level. 


TRINITY     LUTHERAN     CHURCH,     SOUTH     FORK,     PA. 

Rev.  G.  K.  Allen,  who  succeeded  him,  September  23,  1897,  laid 
the  corner-stone  for  the  church  building  April  3,  1898.  The  mem- 
bership at  this  time  was  fifty-one.  In  1901  Rev.  Samuel  Krider, 
of  Windber,  supplied  it,  reporting  fifty-seven  members.  The 
church  was  without  a  pastor  until  the  coming  of  Rev.  Guiney, 
January  21,  1904,  who  was  installed,  July  31,  by  Revs.  W.  A. 
Shipman  D.D.,  and  F.  S.  Shultz.     A  new  parsonage  was  built 

739 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


during  this  summer.  The  report  to  Synod  gave  thirty  communi- 
cants, with  a  Sunday  school  of  sixty.  Electric  lights  were  in- 
stalled during  1905  and  the  parsonage  painted.  Rev.  Guiney  re- 
signed March  11,  1906,  and  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  William  Hoff- 
man, May  25,  1906,  who  reports  thirty-four  members  and  seventy 
scholars  in  the  Sunday  school.  He  also  served  Gallitzin  in  addition 
to  Lovett.  On  November  14,  1907,  Rev.  Hoffman  resigned  and 
moved  to  Gallitzin,  leaving  the  other  two  churches  vacant.  He 
was  succeeded  here  by  Rev.  G.  W.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.,  May'i,  1908. 
He  reported  to  Synod  for  Trinity,  South  Fork,  twenty-five  com- 


JAMES  GREGORY,  PIONEER  MEMBER 
AND  COUNCILMAN,  TRINITY, 
SOUTH    FORK,    PA. 


NEFF  LOHR,  SUNDAY  SCHOOL  SUPER- 
INTENDENT AND  ELDER,  SOUTH 
FORK,    PA. 


municants,  and  for  Trinity,  Lovett,  twenty-seven.  During  the  year 
1909  improvements  to  the  amount  of  $500  were  made  to  the 
church,  and  the  membership  increased  to  eighty  communicants. 
Rev.  Dunlap  resigned  August  1,  191 1. 

Rev.  D.  S.  Weimer  took  charge  March  1,1912.  He  reported  a 
membership  of  106.  Rev.  W.  W.  Frey  took  charge  January  28, 
1914,  Rev.  Weimer  having  been  dismissed  January  6  to  Pitts- 
burgh Synod.  His  first  report  to  Synod  gives  the  membership  as 
148,  and  a  Sunday  school  of  160.  At  this  time  both  church  and 
740 


TRINITY,  LOVETT 


parsonage  were  again  repaired  and  renewed.  The  charge  built 
a  cottage-style  parsonage  at  a  cost  of  $1,500,  giving  thus  a 
summer  home  for  the  pastor  at  Sidman.  He  resigned  October 
18,  1914.  He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  H.  O.  Reynolds,  a  son  of 
the  congregation,  June  1,  191 5,  who  is  pastor  at  this  date. 

Trinity,  Lovett,  Pa. 
The  corner-stone  for  the  new  church  at  Lovett  was  laid  June 
2,  1901,  in  the  Scalp  Level  Charge,  the  pastor,  Rev.  P.  B.  Fasold, 


TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    LOVETT,    PA. 


being  assisted  by  Rev.  Isaac  Krider.  It  was  supplied  by  the  new 
Scalp  Level  Pastor,  Rev.  L.  A.  Bush,  during  1902,  at  which  time 
the  membership  was  reported  as  twenty,  with  a  Sunday  school 
of  fifty-nine.  Rev.  S.  Krider,  of  Windber,  supplied  it  in  1903. 
In  1904  it  was  united  with  South  Fork,  to  form  a  pastorate.  Since 
this  time  it  has  been  served  by  the  same  pastors.  It  has  had  a 
slow  but  a  gradual  growth. 

The  first  council  of  Trinity  Church,  Lovett,  consisted  of  S.  R. 
Miller,  C.  A.  Harbaugh,  Henry  Sauters,  S.  J.  Miller,  George 
Harbaugh  and  S.  L.  Miller. 

Brother  S.  R.  Miller  has  been  a  council  man  ever  since,  and 

741 


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has  been  the  superintendent  of  the  Sunday  school  since  1906. 
And  through  his  self-sacrificing  labors  and  loyalty,  the  Sunday 
school  and  church  have  been  and  are  making  steady  progress.  The 
present  energetic  council  of  loyal  Lutheran  men  consists  of  S.  R. 
Miller,  George  Miller,  G.  A.  Thomas,  C.  A.  Himebaugh,  Max 
Weaver  and  Albert  Slaniforth.  The  devoted  women  of  the 
Ladies'  Aid  Society  of  Trinity,  Lovett,  deserve  special  credit  for 


S.    R.    MILLER,    SUNDAY    SCHOOL    SUPERINTENDENT    SINCE    I906,    ELDER    AND 
TREASURER,     TRINITY,     LOVETT,     PA. 

the  splendid  help  they  rendered  financially — who  through  their 
efforts  made  it  possible  to  build  the  beautiful  parsonage.  Mrs. 
S.  R.  Miller  is  president,  and  has  served  many  years  in  that 
capacity.  

TRINITY  EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

SOMERSET,   PA. 

Rci'.  I.  Hess  Wagner,  D.D.,  Pastor 

The  exact  date  of  the  organization  of  the  Lutheran  congrega- 
tion at  Somerset,  now  named  Trinity  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  is  not  known,  though  the  year  of  its  organization  can  be 
742 


TRINITY,  SOMERSET 


closely,  if  not  accurately,  determined. 

There  are  no  records  of  the  first  pastorate  extant.  The  earliest 
document  in  the  possession  of  the  congregation  is  a  church  record 
started  by  the  second  pastor,  Rev.  E.  H.  Tiedemann,  in  1813. 
The  book  is  in  an  excellent  state  of  preservation  and  contains 
fairly  complete  entries  of  ministerial  acts,  especially  of  infant 
baptisms,  from  1813  to  1871.  From  April  1,  1871,  to  February  4, 
1877,  there  is  no  record,  the  book  for  that  period  having  been 
destroyed  in  the  fire  of  1876.  Therefore,  with  the  exception  of 
the  first  pastorate  and  the  period  covered  by  the  burned  book, 
the  congregation's  record  of  ministerial  acts  is  complete  for  the 
now  123  years  of  its  history. 

The  congregation  at  Somerset,  as  nearly  as  can  be  determined, 
was  organized  in  1794.  Probably  as  early  as  1785  and  up  to  the 
time  of  formal  organization,  occasional  preaching  services  for 
the  Lutherans  in  Somerset  were  held  by  Rev.  John  Michael 
Steck,  and  later  by  Rev.  F.  Lange,  the  latter  of  whom  organized 
the  congregation  in  1794  and  served  as  its  first  pastor  for 
eighteen  years,  the  only  pastor  then  in  the  county.  The  grave 
of  Rev.  Lange,  with  a  plain  sandstone  marker  at  its  head,  is  in 
the  southeast  section  of  the  Lutheran  cemetery  at  Somerset. 

Among  the  earliest  members  were  Adam  Schneider,  John 
Kurtz,  Sr.,  Frederick  Neff,  Sr.,  George  Pile,  Sr.,  Frederick 
Beigle,  George  Chorpenning,  Jacob  Schneider,  Henry  Schneider, 
and  their  wives. 

The  first  place  of  worship  was  a  log  building  in  the  southeast 
corner  of  the  Lutheran  cemetery.  The  second  church  building, 
erected  about  18 10,  was  a  frame  edifice  on  West  Union  Street, 
on  the  lot  immediately  west  of  the  present  parsonage.  This  lot 
and  the  cemetery,  both  of  which  have  passed  out  of  the  hands 
of  the  congregation,  were  donated  by  Adam  Schneider,  one  of 
the  charter  members. 

The  number  of  members  during  the  first  pastorates  is 
unknown,  as  the  pastors  reported  to  Synod  the  number  in  their 
charges  only.  The  second  pastor.  Rev.  E.  H.  Tiedemann, 
served  Berlin,  Somerset  and  several  congregations  in  Bedford 
County.  The  first  register  of  membership  extant  appears  during 
the  ministry  of  the  third  pastor,  Rev.  John  C.  Rebenach,  in  1819, 
which,  including  a  class  of  fourteen  then  confirmed,  numbered 

743 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


fifty-seven   communicants. 

The  fourth  pastor,  Rev.  P.  Schmucker,  1 821- 1824,  was  a  physi- 
cian, and  practiced  medicine  in  connection  with  his  pastoral  work, 
and,  it  appears,  paid  more  attention  to  bodily  than  spiritual 
ministry. 

The  historical  notes,  which  up  to  this  time  are  quite  vague, 
become  more  definite  with  the  first  pastorate  of  Father  Heyer 
in  1824.  Heyer  came  at  a  time  of  crisis  in  the  congregation;  and 
it  is  well  that  a  man  of  his  parts  was  at  hand  to  cope  with  the 
situation.  He  speaks  of  dissensions  and  misunderstandings 
within  the  congregation,  and  of  troubles  without. 

The  Campbellite  sect,  now  known  as  Christians  or  Disciples 
of  Christ,  had  been  organized  but  a  short  time  before,  and  one 
of  their  earliest  congregations  was  located  in  Somerset.  With 
unbounded  zeal  they  prosecuted  their  proselyting  campaign, 
preaching  immersion  as  necessary  to  salvation.  The  excitement 
was  intense,  and  the  young,  especially,  were  being  drawn  away. 
Heyer  says  that  though  he  was  opposed  to  controversial  preach- 
ing, he  found  it  necessary  to  state  and  defend  the  Lutheran  posi- 
tion. He  therefore  began  a  series  of  sermons  on  the  controverted 
points.  After  a  number  of  these  had  been  delivered,  the  disci- 
ples sent  for  their  great  leader  and  founder,  Alexander  Camp- 
bell, who,  they  said,  "would  crush  the  little  Lutheran  preacher 
by  putting  but  the  weight  of  his  hand  upon  him."  A  dramatic 
climax  to  the  great  controversy  came  when,  on  the  night  of 
Campbell's  arrival,  the  frame  church  of  the  Lutherans  on  Union 
Street  was  burned  to  the  ground.  There  were  no  other  buildings 
in  close  proximity,  and  as  there  had  been  no  fire  in  the  church 
the  week  previous,  it  was  generally  conceded  to  have  been  the 
work  of  an  incendiary,  no  doubt  by  someone  overwrought  in  the 
excitement  of  the  controversy.  Services  were  appointed  for  the 
following  Sunday  on  the  site  of  the  burned  church,  when  Rev. 
Heyer  used  as  his  text :  "They  have  cast  fire  into  thy  sanctuary, 
they  have  defiled  by  casting  down  the  dwelling  place  of  thy  name 
to  the  ground."     Ps.  74:7. 

This  excitement  having  somewhat  subsided,  another  crisis 
came  with  the  rise  of  the  Anti-Masonic  party.  The  strife  was 
very  bitter  in  Somerset  and  made  trouble  in  the  congregation, 
which  condition  was  also  admirably  handled  by  Father  Heyer. 
744 


TRINITY,  SOMERSET 


The  Masons  had  built  their  temple  on  the  lot  east  of  the  church. 
The  lodge  being  disrupted  in  the  Anti-Masonic  trouble,  the  build- 
ing was  afterward  purchased  by  the  congregation  and  converted 
into  a  parsonage,  for  which  purpose  it  is  still  used. 

The  corner-stone  for  a  new  brick  church,  on  the  site  of  the 
burned  edifice,  was  laid  in  1825.  The  rebuilding  proved  to  be  a 
long  and  hard  struggle.  There  remained  an  indebtedness  on  the 
building  that  had  been  destroyed,  and  the  congregation  was  small 
in  numbers  and  poor  in  worldly  goods.  Although  Father  Heyer, 
by  the  sanction  of  Svnod,  collected  monev  throughout  its  terri- 


PARSONAGE,    SOMERSET,    PA.     (OLD    MASONIC    HALL) 

tory,  the  congregation  was  unable  to  complete  the  building  dur- 
ing his  first  pastorate  or  during  that  of  his  successor,  Rev. 
Heilig.  It  was  finally  completed  and  dedicated  in  June,  1832, 
in  the  first  year  of  Father  Heyer's  second  pastorate,  seven  years 
after  the  corner-stone  had  been  laid.  This  building  is  still  stand- 
ing, west  of  the  parsonage,  and  is  now  used  as  a  residence.  Dur- 
ing the  seven  years  of  its  building,  the  congregation  worshiped 
in  the  Reformed  Church. 

An  entry  in  the  record  by  Rev.  Heilig,  who  served  between 
Father  Heyer's  two  pastorates,  has  these  items :     "Collection  for 

745 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


the  Synod,  $1.42.  Collection  on  a  sacramental  occasion,  $3.16. 
Expenditures:    Candles,  $1.31;  wood-chopping,  $2.50." 

When  Father  Heyer  began  his  second  pastorate,  serving  Som- 
erset, Friedens,  Stoyestown,  Samuel's,  Hoffman  and  Shade,  he 
states  that  the  congregation  was  scattered  and  in  worse  shape 
than  when  he  left  it.  He  served  a  year  without -salary  to  aid  in 
finishing  the  church.  He  remarks  that  the  Campbellites  taunt- 
ingly asked :  "What  will  the  Lutherans  ever  want  with  so  large 
a  building?" 

In  1858  the  congregation  built  its  fourth  church  edifice,  on  the 
southwest  corner  of  Main  Cross  and  Union  Streets,  where  the 


\m 

LUTHERAN    CHURCH    ON     UNION     STREET     (THIRD    BUILDING)     SOMERSET,    PA. 

Somerset  Trust  Company's  building  now  stands.  This  was  dur- 
ing the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Charles  Witmer.  Why  the  substantial, 
and  then  commodious,  brick  structure  on  Union  Street  was 
abandoned  and  a  new  church  built  at  this  time,  is  not  apparent, 
except  that  it  was  considered  far  out,  in  those  days  of  no  street 
lighting  and  poor  pavements.  The  new  building  was  used  for 
eighteen  years,  when,  just  as  the  indebtedness  on  the  same  had 
been  cancelled,  it  was  destroyed  in  the  fire  of  1X72,  during  the 
first  year  of  Rev.  Whetstone's  pastorate. 

A   new  location  was  sought,   and  the  second   lot  west  of  the 
746 


TRINITY,  SOMERSET 


public  square,  on  the  south  side  of  Main  Street,  was  secured, 
where  the  present  imposing  edifice,  the  fifth  church  building  of 
the  congregation,  now  stands.  The  lot,  as  originally  secured, 
was  sixty-six  feet  wide  and  264  feet  deep,  extending  to  Patriot 


TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    SOMERSET.    PA. 

Street.     Immediately   132  feet  was  sold   from  the  rear  and  ten 
feet  from  the  west  side,  leaving  a  lot  132  by  ^6  feet. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  present  edifice  was  laid  on  October  13, 
1873.  The  basement  was  first  finished  and  used  as  a  place  of 
worship   for   nearly    four   years,   when   the   entire   building  was 

747 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


completed  and  dedicated  on  July  8,  1877.  The  sermon  on  the 
day  of  dedication  was  preached  by  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad,  D.D., 
of  Philadelphia. 

The  building  is  a  two-story  brick  structure  in  the  Romanesque 
style  of  architecture,  with  art  glass  memorial  windows.  The 
original  dimensions  were  45  by  91  feet,  with  a  spire  150  feet  in 
height,  containing  a  bell  weighing  2,000  pounds.  The  cost  of 
the  building  was  $21,000.  This  churchly  edifice  stands  as  a 
monument  to  Rev.  A.  M.  Whetstone  and  those  who  labored  with 
him  in  those  days  of  great  trial  for  the  congregation. 

With  a  beautiful  building  completed,  Trinity  Church  entered 
upon  another  stressful  period  of  her  history.  The  congrega- 
tion was  heavily  in  debt.  Soon  after  the  fire,  $4,000  was  in  hand 
from  subscriptions  at  home  and  contributions  from  abroad.  The 
Synod  contributed  an  additional  $1,000.  On  the  day  of  dedica- 
tion, $3,500  was  raised.  We  do  not  have  record  of  what  wras 
contributed  at  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone,  but  a  large  indebt- 
edness remained  after  the  day  of  dedication,  which  became 
burdensome,  owing  to  the  conditions  then  obtaining.  Many  of 
the  members  had  suffered  heavily  in  the  fire.  The  full  effects 
of  the  panic  of  1873  did  not  reach  Somerset,  as  an  inland  town, 
till,  about  1877,  the  time  of  the  dedication,  when  conditions 
became  very  distressing.  Many  of  the  members  moved  away, 
seeking  better  conditions  elsewhere.  These  circumstances  made 
the  financing  of  the  congregation  an  heroic  struggle  for  a  num- 
ber of  years. 

Until  1887  church  services  were  held  in  the  upper  room  dur- 
ing the  summer  only.  During  the  winter  season  the  service  was 
conducted  in  the  Sunday  school  room,  as  no  heating  plant  had 
been  installed  for  the  auditorium.  In  1887  a  successful  effort 
was  made  to  secure  subscriptions  to  wipe  out  the  old  indebted- 
ness and  to  install  a  steam  heating  plant. 

In  1905,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  R.  L.  Patterson,  D.D., 
the  building  was  enlarged  and  remodeled,  and  a  fine  pipe  organ 
installed,  at  a  total  cost  of  about  $12,000.  Exceptionally  good 
taste  was  shown  in  the  furnishing  and  arrangement  of  the  sanc- 
tuary, resulting  in  one  of  the  most  churchly  and  satisfying 
houses  of  worship  in  the  Synod. 

These,  in  brief,  are  some  of  the  crises  through  wmich  Trinity 
748 


TRINITY,  SOMERSET 


Church  has  passed,  and  the  noble  achievements  of  pastors  and 
people  in  the  days  of  smaller  things.  Others  have  labored  and 
we  have  entered  into  their  labors.  Trinity  has  grown  with  the 
growth  of  the  town,  its  increase  in  membership  in  later  years 
being  coincident  with  the  increased  population  of  the  county  seat. 
At  the  beginning  of  the  ministry  of  Dr.  Patterson,  the  communi- 
cant membership  was  280;  at  its  close  it  was  480.  During  the 
present  pastorate  the  communicant  membership  has  grown  from 
480  to  825,  making  it  the  fourth  largest  congregation  in  the 
Synod,  and  the  largest  congregation  of  any  denomination  in  the 
county. 


INTERIOR    TRINITY    LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    SOMERSET,    PA. 

The  following  are  the  pastors  who  have  served  this  congrega- 
tion:  F.  W.  Lange,  1794  to  1812;  E.  H.  Tiedemann,  1813  to 
1818;  John  C.  Rebenach,  1819  to  1820;  P.  Schmucker,  182 1  to 
1824;  C.  F.  Heyer,  1824  to  1828;  D.  Heilig,  1829  to  1831 ;  C.  F. 
Heyer,"  183 1  to  1836.  He  reported,  in  1834,  five  congregations 
with  562  members;  H.  Haverstick,  1836  to  1838;  P.  Rizer,  1838 
to  1847.  He  reported  to  Synod,  1840,  seven  congregations  and 
494  members,  with  $10  for  education,  $20  for  missions,  $3.60 
for  Synodical  treasury;  W.  Uhl,  1848  to  1852;  Augustus  Babb, 
1852  to  1856;  Charles  Witmer,  1857  to  1859;  G.  M.  Pile,  i860  to 
1861  ;  L.  Gerhard,  1861  to  1866;  J.  P.  Hentz,  1866  to  1871 ; 
A.  M.  Whetstone,   1872  to  1881 ;  J.  F.  Shearer,  1882  to  1891  ; 

749 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


J.  S.  Harkey,  1891  to  1897;  D.  S.  Hoover,  1898  to  1902;  R.  L. 
Patterson,  D.D.,  1902  to  1908;  I.  Hess  Wagner,  D.D.,  1909,  the 
present  pastor.  At  this  time  the  average  length  of  pastorates,  in- 
cluding vacancies,  has  been  six  years. 

The  Sunday  School 

We  have  no  record  as  to  when  the  Sunday  school  was  organ- 
ized, or  who  were  its  first  officers,  though  there  is  evidence  that 
it  was  organized  at  an  early  date. 

Among  the  earlier  superintendents  were  John  L.  Snyder,  John 
C.  Kurtz  and  Samuel  Kurtz.  Since  1881,  or  for  a  period  of 
thirty-six  years,  at  this  writing,  Hon.  W.  H.  Ruppel  has  faith- 
fully and  efficiently  served  as  Superintendent,  during  which 
period  the  school  has  grown  to  be  the  second  largest  in  the 
Synod. 

The  school  has  enjoyed  a  phenomenal  growth  during  the  pres- 
ent pastorate,  especially  in  the  Adult  Department.  The  Brother- 
hood, Bible  Class  has  an  enrollment  of  350  men,  and  the  Seekers' 
Bible  Class  an  enrollment  of  200  women.  The  total  enrollment 
of  the  school  is  now,  including  officers  and  teachers,  Home  De- 
partment and  Cradle  Roll,  979. 

Missionary  Societies 

The  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was 
organized  on  May  30,  1881,  by  Miss  Emma  Dengler,  during  the 
last  year  of  Rev.  Whetstone's  pastorate.  The  first  officers  were : 
President,  Mrs.  Oliver  Knepper ;  vice-presidents,  Mrs.  John 
Holderbaum  and  Mrs.  Curtis  Kooser ;  secretaries,  Laura  K. 
Knepper  and  Belle  Walker ;  treasurer,  Mrs.  Clara  Ruppel.  This 
society  continues  in  active  service  after  thirty-six  years  of  faith- 
ful and  telling  work  in  the  missionary  cause. 

The  Dorcas  Missionary  Society,  for  some  years  known  as  the 
Young  Ladies'  Missionary  Society,  was  later  organized,  and  is 
composed  of  the  younger  members  of  the  congregation.  This 
is  an  active  and  progressive  society  and  is  doing  a  most  important 
work. 

Items  of  Interest 

The  charter  of  incorporation  was  originally  granted  at  the 
February  term  of  court  in  1846.  It  was  later  revised,  at  which 
750 


TRINITY,  SOMERSET 


time  the  name  "Trinity"  was  adopted. 

The  women  were  granted  the  privilege  of  voting  in  congrega- 
tional matters  by  a  revision  of  the  old  constitution  on  Febru- 
ary 26,  1866. 

The  system  of  pew  rents  was  used  in  the  earlier  days.  We 
find  record  of  receipts  from  pew  rents  as  late  as  1866. 

Graff  M.  Pile  and  H.  S.  Rhoads  are  the  only  men  who  have 
entered  the  ministry  from  this  congregation,  as  far  as  we  are 
able  to  learn. 

The  dedication  of  the  church  in  1877  was  apparently  an  event 
of  more  than  local  interest,  as  it  was  attended  by  the  following 
pastors,  viz.,  Revs.  J.  J.  Welsh,  Friedens ;  J.  W.  Poffinberger, 
Berlin ;  Prof.  John  Brubaker,  Carthage  College,  111. ;  B.  B.  Collins, 
Berlin ;  L.  L.  Sieber,  Lavansville ;  Wm.  Spangler,  of  New  Lexing- 
ton ;  J.  A.  Koser,  of  Salisbury ;  Abel  Thompson,  of  Ursina ;  B. 
Pugh,  Somerset  Township,  and  H.  Haverstick,  a  former  pastor. 

Bequests  to  the  congregation  of  which  we  have  record  are  as 
follows :  Adam  Schneider,  the  church  lot  on  West  Union  Street 
and  the  cemetery,  both  of  which  have  passed  out  of  the  hands 
of  the  congregation.  Rev.  Leonard  Gerhard,  120  acres  of  land 
in  Iowa,  which  was  sold  many  years  ago.  Mrs.  Minnie  Hun- 
secker,  $300  for  the  Sunday  school  and  $500  for  the  church. 
William  Statler,  $100  to  be  held  in  trust  for  the  first  of  his 
descendants  who  may  study  for  the  Lutheran  ministry. 

Trinity  has  formed  a  pastorate  by  itself  since  November  1, 
1914,  when  Synod  authorized  its  separation  from  Casebeer 
Church.  Before  this  time,  except  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev. 
J.  S.  Harkey,  1891  to  1897,  when  Trinity  stood  alone,  the  con- 
gregation was  always  a  part  of  a  charge  composed  of  a  varying 
number  of  congregations.  As  late  as  1840,  Rev.  Rizer  served 
seven  congregations,  but  the  membership  of  the  seven  congrega- 
tions numbered  far  less  than  Trinity  alone  now  has,  the  total 
membership  of  the  seven  being  650.  L'p  to  the  end  of  the  pas- 
torate of  Rev.  Hentz,  i860  to  1871,  four  congregations  composed 
the  charge,  Somerset,  Casebeer,  Samuel's  and  Bakersville. 
Beginning  with  the  ministry  of  Rev.  W'hetstone  in  1872,  Trinity 
and  Casebeer  composed  the  charge  up  to  the  time  of  the  final 
separation  in  1914. 


751 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


STOYESTOWN  CHARGE 

Rev.  J .  S.  English,  Pastor. 

The  Evangelical   Lutheran   Church   of   Stoyestown,   Pa. 

The  Stoyestown  congregation  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  is  one  of  the  oldest  congregations  of  this  denomination 
in  Somerset  County.  To  trace  its  earliest  history  is  rather  a 
difficult  matter,  and  this  for  several  different  reasons.  About 
i oo  years  ago,  what  Lutheran  Churches  were  then  in  the  county 


GRACE     EVANGELICAL     LUTHERAN     CHURCH,     STOYESTOWN,     PA. 


composed  one  charge.  Think  of  this,  ye  pastors  whose  territory 
now  embraces  from  twenty  to  forty  square  miles.  Think  of  this 
in  a  day  when  automobiles  were  undreamed  of  and  even  the 
ordinary  buggy  had  not  yet  made  its  appearance.  Think  of  this 
when  bridle-paths  were  oftentimes  the  only  highways  between 
the  different  settlements.  An  old  historian  in  writing  about  the 
affairs  of  the  Lutheran  Church  on  this  territory,  makes  the  state- 
ment that  until  1818  there  was  only  one  regular  Lutheran  pastor 
752 


THE  LUTHERAN  CHURCH  OF  STOYESTOWN 

in  Somerset  County.  This  being  the  case,  it  was  not  often  that 
the  individual  congregations  had  their  records  on  their  own 
territory.  And  even  in  those  places  where  such  records  were 
kept,  it  has  frequently  occurred  that  through  the  lapse  of  years 
these  same  records  have  been  largely  mutilated  or  entirely 
destroyed.  The  oldest  records  of  the  Stoyestown  congregation 
lack  some  of  their  most  important  pages.  It  can  be  stated,  how- 
ever, that  when  the  congregation  was  organized,  the  name  Grace 
was  given  to  it.  This  fact  seems  to  have  been  forgotten,  for  in 
later  years  it  has  been  known  simply  as  the  Stoyestown  Lutheran 
Church.  As  to  the  exact  year  of  its  organization  and  by  whom 
organized,  cannot  be  definitely  stated.  It  is  thought  that  Rev. 
Steck  preached  at  this  place  as  far  back  as  1788.  In  1796,  Rev. 
Lange  recorded  in  the  Berlin  Church  book  that  he  baptized 
twelve  children  in  Quemahoning,  and  in  1797,  ten  children.  In 
the  oldest  existing  record  of  the  Stoyestown  congregation  it  is 
written  that  Rev.  Lange  baptized  seven  children  on  June  7,  1797. 
From  the  most  reliable  information  obtainable,  it  is  thought  that 
Rev.  Lange  organized  this  congregation  about  1807.  If  a  church 
organization  was  not  effected  until  this  time,  services  either  regu- 
larly or  occasionally  were  held  at  this  place  for  twenty  years 
previous  to  this  date. 

About  1796,  a  log  building  was  erected  for  church  and  school 
purposes,  on  the  site  of  the  old  cemetery  at  the  east  end  of  the 
borough.  This  building  some  few  years  later  was  destroyed  by 
tire.  On  the  same  location,  about  1810,  a  Lutheran  and  German 
Reformed  Union  Church  was  built.  It  was  a  frame  structure, 
two  stories  high  and  about  28  by  30  feet.  Its  cost  is  not 
recorded,  neither  is  the  numerical  strength  of  the  congregations 
that  worshipped  there.  In  accordance  with  the  ideas  of  church 
architecture  at  that  time,  the  building  had  a  gallery  around  three 
sides ;  straight,  high-backed  benches  or  pews ;  pulpit  with  a  wind- 
ing stairway,  and  above  the  pulpit  the  sounding-board.  The 
Lutheran  congregation  worshipped  in  this  building  until  1841. 
About  that  time  the  building  was  torn  down. 

In  that  same  year  the  Lutheran  congregation  built  its  own 
church  on  a  corner  lot  in  almost  the  central  part  of  the  borough. 
The  lot,  or,  rather,  as  much  ground  as  was  needed  on  which  to 
build   a  church,  was  given  by  Mr.  Jacob   Maurer.      The  new 

753 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


church  was  a  one-story  frame  building,  38  by  58  feet,  and  four- 
teen feet  high.  The  building  cost  $1,200  and  was  considered  a 
fine  structure  for  the  time  in  which  it  was  built.  At  this  time 
the  Stoyestown  charge  consisted  of  the  following  congregations : 
Stoyestown,  Friedens,  Will's,  Hoffman's,  Homers  and  St.  James. 

The  St.  James  congregation  later  on  became  a  part  of  the 
Jennerstown  pastorate.  On  December  1,  1879,  during  the  pas- 
torate of  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch,  the  Stoyestown  charge  was  divided 
into  two  charges.  Rev.  W'elch  resigned  the  pastorate  of  the 
Stoyestown,  Horner  and  Hoffman  congregations  and  retained 
the  pastorate  of  the  Friedens  and  Will's  congregations.  Rev. 
J.  W.  Ryder  was  the  first  pastor  of  the  Stoyestown  charge  as 
this  charge  is  known  at  this  present  time. 

In  1888,  the  entire  lot  on  which  the  old  church  building  stood 
was  bought  for  $700.  The  old  church  was  then  moved  to  the 
rear  of  the  lot  to  make  way  for  the  erection  of  a  new  church 
building.  The  old  structure  was  used  until  the  new  edifice  was 
completed  when  it  was  sold  for  $300.  The  corner-stone  of  the 
new  church  was  laid  on  May  23,  1888,  and  was  dedicated  on 
May  12,  1889,  during  the  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston, 
D.D.  Rev.  J.  H.  Menges,  of  Philadelphia,  had  charge  of  the 
services  on  the  day  of  dedication  and  on  that  day  all  indebted- 
ness was  liquidated.  The  new  church,  which  is  still  serving  the 
purpose  of  the  congregation,  is  built  of  brick,  and  is  40  by  70 
feet.     It  contains  two  rooms  separated  by  sliding  partitions. 

Since  its  erection  it  has  been  improved  at  different  times.  It 
now  has  a  slate  roof,  is  heated  by  steam  and  lighted  by  electricity. 
During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  the  old  par- 
sonage in  the  eastern  end  of  the  borough  was  sold  and  a  new 
parsonage  was  erected  on  the  same  lot  as  the  church.  It  is  a 
frame  structure  containing  ten  rooms  and  is  now  equipped  with 
.all  the  modern  conveniences.  The  congregation  at  the  present 
time  has  an  active  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary 
Society  and  an  aggressive  Sunday  school.  This  charge  has 
furnished  Revs.  J.  E.  Maurer,  Lovettsville,  Va.,  W.  A.  Berkey, 
Grand  Junction,  Colo.,  and  C.  E.  Berkey,  Shanksville,  to  the 
ministry.  The  following  pastors  have  served  the  Stoyestown 
congregation  : 

Rev.  Lange,  from  the  time  of  its  organization,  about  1807, 
754 


HOFFMAN 


until  1811;  Rev.  Ernest  H.  Tiedeman,  1812  to  1818;  Rev.  John 
Rebenach,  18 19  to  1821  ;  Rev.  Peter  Schmucker,  1821  to  May, 
1824;  Rev.  Charles  F.  Heyer,  1824  to  July,  1828;  Rev.  Daniel 
Heilig,  March,  1829,  to  March,  183 1 ;  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  a  second 
time,  January,  1832,  to  January,  1836;  Rev.  Haverstick,  July, 
1836,  to  July,  1839;  Rev.  Peter  Rizer,  1839,  to  1843;  ^ev- 
Samuel  B.  Lawson,  1845  to  1849;  Rev.  John  T.  Williams, 
August,  1849,  to  August,  1850;  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Miller,  November, 
1850,  to  November,  1857;  Rev.  Peter  Sahm,  February,  1858,  to 
September,  1861 ;  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  September,  1861,  to 
April,  1874;  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch,  December,  1874,  to  December, 
1879 ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Ryder,  no  dates  on  record ;  Rev.  A.  K.  Felton, 
February,  1881,  to  April,  1885;  Rev.  A.  Sell,  October,  1885,  to 
August,  1888;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  December,  1888,  to 
1894;  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  November,  1894,  to  November,  1904; 
Rev.  J.  S.  English,  March,  1905,  until  the  present. 

Hoffman  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  commonly  known  as  Hoff- 
man's, in  Jenner  Township,  was  organized  by  the  Rev.  Ernest 
Henry  Tiedeman  on  November  20,  1814.  It  is  altogether  likely 
that  he  preached  here  some  time  before  an  organization  was 
effected,  for  a  church  was  built  almost  one  year  previous  to  this 
date.  For  about  six  years,  or  from  1812  until  1818,  he  seems 
to  have  had  charge  of  all  the  Lutheran  congregations  in  this 
county.  From  an  old  record  it  has  been  learned  that  during  the 
month  of  January,  1814,  subscriptions  were  taken  in  this  vicinity 
for  the  purpose  of  building  a  church.  Those  having  charge  of 
the  work  secured  subscriptions  to  the  amount  of  $61.53.  Of  this 
amount  $35  was  marked  doubtful. 

Had  we  lived  in  those  times  perhaps  these  figures  would 
not  seem  so  amusing.  At  any  rate  from  this  record  we  see 
that  even  in  those  pioneer  days  there  were  some  who  found 
it  an  easy  matter  to  subscribe,  but  it  seems  the  paying  part  was 
an  entirely  different  proposition.  There  is  a  baptism  recorded 
July  6,  1812,  and  another  one  April  30,  1813,  which  bears  out 
the  statement  that  services  were  no  doubt  conducted  here  before 
a   formal  organization  took  place.     The  church    for   which  the 

755 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


$61.53  was  subscribed  was  erected.  It  was  built  of  logs,  about 
25  by  30  feet,  and  one-story  high.  The  pews  were  blocks  set  on 
end  with  boards  laid  across  them.  No  doubt  the  money  paid 
in  together  with  the  work  done  by  the  members  enabled  them  to 
dedicate  their  church  free  of  debt,  and  this  is  more  than  can 
be  said  for  many  a  modern  congregation.  Rev.  Tiedeman 
administered  communion  to  forty-two  persons  in  this  church  in 
1819.  What  the  membership  was  at  that  time  is  not  stated,  but 
evidently  it  was  greater  than  the  number  which  communed.  In 
the  early  part  of  1820,  Rev.  Tiedeman,  the  organizer  and  first 


HOFFMAN  S    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH 

pastor  of  this  congregation,  died  at  Bedford.  During  the  pas- 
torate of  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson  in  1845,  a  one-story  frame 
church,  34  by  44  feet,  was  built  at  a  cost  of  $1,200,  and  was 
dedicated  on  November  23,  1845. 

In  December,  1869,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  John  Tomlin- 
son.  this  building  took  fire  from  a  defective  flue  and  was  burned 
to  the  ground.    Arrangements  were  immediately  made  to  rebuild. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  new  church  was  laid  on  July  4,  1870, 
and  the  building  was  dedicated  July  31,  1871.  It  is  a  frame 
structure,  48  by  57  feet,  and  cost  $3,200.  This  building  has 
756 


HORNER'S 


been  improved  at  different  times  and  is  still  serving  the  needs 
of  the  congregation. 

The  following  have  served  as  pastors  of  this  congregation : 
Rev.  E.  H.  Tiedeman,  1814  to  1819;  Rev.  John  Rebenach,  1819 
to  1 82 1 ;  Rev.  Peter  Schmucker,  1821  to  1824;  Rev.  Charles  F. 
Heyer,  1824  to  1828;  Rev.  Daniel  Heilig,  March,  1829,  to  March, 
183 1 ;  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer,  a  second  time,  January,  1832,  to  Jan- 
uary, 1836;  Rev.  Haverstick,  July,  1836,  to  July,  1839;  Rev. 
Peter  Rizer,  November,  1839,  to  November,  1843;  Rev.  Samuel 
B.  Lawson,  January,  1845,  to  April,  1849;  Rev.  John  T. 
Williams,  August,  1849,  to  August,  1850;  Rev.  Jacob  K.  Miller, 
November,  1850,  to  November,  1857;  Rev.  Peter  Sahm,  Febru- 
ary, 1858,  to  September,  1861 ;  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  September, 
1861,  to  April,  1874;  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch.  December,  1874,  to 
December,  1879 ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Ryder,  no  dates  on  record ;  Rev. 
A.  K.  Felton,  February,  1881,  to  April,  1885;  Rev.  A.  Sell, 
October,  1885,  to  August,  1888;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  December, 
1888,  to  1894;  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  November,  1894,  to  November, 
1904;  Rev.  J.  S.  English,  March,  1905,  until  the  present  time. 

Horner's  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
The  exact  date  of  the  organization  of  the  Horner  Lutheran 
congregation  is  not  known.  Rev.  Charles  F.  Heyer,  one  of  the 
pioneer  pastors  of  Somerset  County,  effected  an  organization 
sometime  during  the  year  1835.  At  this  time  Rev.  Heyer  was 
pastor  of  what  was  known  as  the  Somerset  charge,  and  in  1841 
sailed  to  India,  the  first  American  Lutheran  foreign  missionary. 
The  first  subscription  to  build  a  church  is  dated  March  7,  1835. 
In  one  of  the  old  records  the  statement  is  made  that  the  church 
was  dedicated  on  November  15,  1839.  It  seems  rather  strange 
that  four  years  elapsed  before  the  first  church  was  finished,  but 
such  the  records  tell  us  was  the  case.  This  first  church  was 
built  jointly  by  the  Lutheran,  the  Reformed  and  the  Dunkard 
people.  It  was  26  by  36  feet,  and  cost  $850.  Each  one  of  these 
parties  paid  an  equal  share  toward  its  erection.  This  building 
stood  on  the  side  of  what  is  now  known  as  the  Horner  Union 
cemetery.  The  trustees  and  building  committee  consisted  of  the 
following :  Adam  Maurer  and  Valentine  Muller,  Lutheran ;  Jacob 
Bowman   and   Josiah  Zimmerman,   Reformed.      No   mention   is 

757 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


made  in  the  old  records  as  to  who  the  Dunkard  representatives 
were.  It  was  not  uncommon  in  the  early  days  for  the  Lutheran 
and  Reformed  people  to  build  union  churches.  In  fact,  this 
custom  is  still  in  existence  in  many  communities.  But  this  is  the 
first  instance  of  which  we,  personally,  have  any  knowledge  of 
such  an  arrangement.  How  it  worked  out,  whether  harmoni- 
ously or  otherwise,  we  are  not  informed.  The  first  church  coun- 
cil consisted  of  Adam  Maurer,  John  and  William  Miller,  elders, 
and   Valentine    Muller   and   John    Snyder,    deacons.       The    first 


HORNER  S    EVANGELICAL   LUTHERAN    CHURCH,    STOYESTOWN,   CHARGE 


Lutheran  communion  service  held  in  this  church  was  on  Decem- 
ber i,  1839.     The  services  were  in  charge  of  Rev.  Rizer. 

The  Lutheran  and  Reformed  congregations  used  this  church 
for  about  thirty-four  years.  How  long  the  Dunkards  used  it 
we  have  no  record.  For  many  years  very  few  of  this  faith  have 
lived  in  this  immediate  vicinity.  In  the  early  part  of  the  '70s 
this  building  was  torn  down.  Rev.  Keefer,  who  was  pastor  of 
the  Reformed  congregation  at  that  time,  asked  permission  to 
take  the  contents  of  the  old  corner-stone  home,  in  order  that  he 
758 


SUMMERHILL  CHARGE 


might  make  a  copy  of  the  documents  it  contained.  These  docu- 
ments were  never  returned.  In  1873,  during  the  pastorate  of 
Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  a  new  Lutheran  Church  was  built  on  the 
opposite  side  of  the  road  from  the  old  structure.  The  building 
committee,  who  were  also  the  trustees,  consisted  of  the  follow- 
ing persons :  Jonas  Maurer,  Judge  Daniel  Stufft  and  Adam 
Maurer.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  on  June  15,  1873,  and  the 
church  was  dedicated  on  December  25,  1873.  This  building, 
having  been  improved  from  time  to  time,  is  still  serving  the  needs 
of  the  congregation.  It  is  commodious,  well  equipped,  and  in 
every  way  answers  the  purpose  for  which  it  was  erected.  Its 
total  cost  was  $3,500.  After  repairs,  consisting  of  new  slate 
roof,  interior  and  exterior  painting,  new  platform,  altar  railing, 
chairs,  carpet,  chandelier  and  stoves,  the  church  was  reopened 
September  3,  1899,  Revs.  H.  D.  Hoover  and  Welch  assisting 
Pastor  Fleck.  The  cost  of  these  was  $751.30.  At  one  time  the 
Horner  congregation  was  the  largest  in  the  Stoyestown  charge. 
During  late  years  there  have  been  many  deaths  and  removals. 
Some  of  the  most  prominent  members  in  the  Lutheran  Churches 
of  surrounding  towns  were  formerly  connected  with  the  Horner 
congregation.  The  church  at  Dibertsville  is  also  a  child  of  this  con- 
gregation. The  following  pastors  have  served  this  congregation : 
Rev.  Charles  F.  Heyer,  organization  to  1835 ;  Rev.  D.  Haver- 
stick,  1836  to  1839;  Rev.  Peter  Rizer,  1839  to  1843;  Rev.  Samuel 
B.  Lawson,  1845  to  1849;  Rev.  John  T.  Williams,  1849  to  1850; 
Rev.  Jacob  K.  Miller,  1850  to  1857;  Rev.  Peter  Sahm,  1858  to 
1861 ;  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  1861  to  1874;  Rev.  J.  J.  Welch, 
1874  to  1879 ;  Rev.  J.  W.  Ryder,  no  dates ;  Rev.  A.  K.  Felton, 
1881  to  1885;  Rev.  A.  Sell,  1885  to  1888;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston, 
D.D.,  1888  to  1894;  Rev.  L.  N.  Fleck,  1894  to  1904;  Rev.  J.  S. 
English,  1905  until  the  present. 


SUMMERHILL  CHARGE 

CAMBRIA  COUNTY,  PA. 

Rev.  F.  S.  Shultz,  Pastor 

The  Summerhill  charge,  as  it  is  now  known,  has  had  the  dis- 
tinction of  having  three  different  names  in  the  history  of  the 

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Synod.  First  it  was  called  the  Jefferson  Mission  as  that  was 
the  former  name  of  Wilmore.  A  short  time  after  Rev.  Kuhlman 
took  charge  the  mission  became  self-sustaining  and  the  name  of 
the  town  having  been  changed  to  Wilmore  the  name  of  the 
charge  was  known  as  the  Wilmore  charge  until  1898,  when  the 
present  parsonage  was  built  at  Summerhill  and  the  name  of  the 
charge  changed  to  the  same. 

Besides  the  three  congregations  now  forming  the  charge, 
namely,  Summerhill,  Wilmore  and  Jackson,  the  following  con- 
gregations in  Somerset  and  Cambria  Counties  at  one  time  or 
another  belonged  to  this  charge :  Scalp  Level,  Dunmeyer,  Lilly, 
Portage  and  South  fork,  the  three  last  being  organized  by  pastors 
of  the  charge. 

The  membership  has  never  been  very  large,  that  of  the  Sum- 
merhill congregation  fluctuating  from  about  forty  to  200,  the 
present  membership  being  103.  That  of  Wilmore  was  up  to 
about  150  at  one  time,  but  it  is  now  down  to  forty.  Jackson 
has  never  varied  a  great  deal,  running  from  thirty-five  to  about 
sixty,  the  present  membership  being  fifty-three. 

Just  recently  the  parsonage  has  been  equipped  with  all  modern 
conveniences. 

Summerhill  (Halfway  House)  Lutheran  Church 
About  the  year  1800,  Thomas  Croyle  and  his  wife,  Barbra, 
located  in  this  place,  having  moved  from  Bedford  County.  They 
evidently  were  leaders  in  community  affairs  for  the  township 
and  the  church  which  were  formed  shortly  after  their  locating 
here  were  both  named  in  their  honor. 

In  1832,  Mrs.  Barbra  Croyle  deeded  two  acres  and  sixty-eight 
perches  of  ground  to  be  used  as  a  site  for  a  union  church  and 
burying  ground.  Upon  this  site  a  small  frame  building  was 
erected  and  used  by  the  Presbyterians  [Reformed]  and  Lutherans 
as  a  place  of  worship. 

As  to  the  exact  date  of  the  organization  of  a  Lutheran  Church 
their  seems  to  be  some  discrepancy  between  the  oldest  records 
and  the  minutes  of  Synod.  In  the  Synodical  minutes  of  1845, 
this  record  appears :  "The  Halfway  House  congregation  in 
Cambria  County  was  received  into  Synod."  While  the  earliest 
record  in  the  church  book  is  that  of  a  congregational  meeting  of 
760 


SUMMERHILL   (HALFWAY  HOUSE) 

the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  at  Jefferson  and  Halfway 
House  held  June  5,  1847,  in  Mrs.  Croyle's  Church  for  the  elec- 
tion of  church  officers  which  resulted  in  the  choice  of  Messrs. 
Palmer  and  Croyle,  for  elders,  and  Messrs.  Settlemyer  and  Paul, 
for  deacons.  This  would  indicate  an  organization  prior  to  this 
date. 

Continuing,  the  record  says :  "June  6,  1847.  List  of  com- 
municants at  the  Halfway  House,  Rev.  A.  Bosserman,  preacher 
in  charge,  pastor  of  the  First  Church,  Johnstown :    Joseph  Wisel, 


THE   EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CHURCH    OF    SUMMERHILL,    PA. 

Susan  Wisel,  William  Burnhimer,  Adam  Rhorbaugh,  Maria 
Rhorbaugh,  George  Slonaker,  Elizabeth  Slonaker,  Isaac  Paul, 
Peter  Barrick,  George  Settlemyer,  Joseph  Croyle,  Valentine 
Moyer,  Elizabeth  Pringle,  Susan  Paul,  Michael  Knips,  Eliza- 
beth Ketner,  Susan  Stineman,  Barbra  Meyers,  Catherine  Settle- 
myer, Enderson  Englehart,  Margaret  Englehart,  Jacob  Stiffler, 
Margaret  Croyle,  Jacob  Stineman,  Mary  Stineman,  Catherine 
Sell,  John  Paul,  Daniel  Flenner,  Jacob  Weaver,  Eliza  Weaver, 
Elizabeth  Paul,  Daniel  Stineman,  Elizabeth  Stineman,  Leah 
Stineman,    Febe    Rhinehart.    Samuel    Croyle,    William    Palmer, 

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Mathias  Michel,  Daniel  Burtnet,  Mariah  Burtnet,  John  Karr, 
Elizabeth  Patterson,  Susan  Stiffler,  Mary  Karr,  Eva  Right. 

Among  these  names  are  prominent  people  from  both  Wilmore 
and  Jackson,  who  later  were  the  leaders  in  the  organization  of 
their  churches. 

Rev.  Bosserman  continued  as  supply  until  April,  1848,  when 
he  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  P.  Sahm,  who  supplied  until  about 
January  1,  1853. 

For  the  next  two  years  the  Revs.  J.  Klies  and  C.  C.  Brandt,  of 
the  German  Lutheran  Church,  of  Johnstown,  supplied. 

On  November  1,  1855,  Rev.  Lewis  J.  Bell,  principal  of  the 
Johnstown  Academy,  began  as  supply  and  continued  until  the 
spring  of  1858.  The  first  regular  pastor  was  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhl- 
man,   who   served    from   April    1,    1859,   to    September    1,    i860. 

Following  is  the  list  of  later  pastors  and  their  time  of  service : 

Rev.  P.  Sheeder,  September  25,  1864,  to  May  1,  1867;  Rev. 
A.  R.  Height,  September  1,  1867,  to  January  1,  1870;  A.  J. 
Hartsock,  April  1,  1870,  to  April  28,  1872.  It  was  during  his 
ministry  that  the  present  church  was  built.  The  corner-stone 
was  laid  on  August  19,  1871,  the  Rev..  R.  A.  Fink,  of  Johnstown, 
preaching  the  sermon.  The  Rev.  Henry  Baker,  of  Altoona,  took 
part  in  the  services.  The  church  was  dedicated  on  December 
24,  1871,  Rev.  J.  R.  Dimm,  of  Philadelphia,  preaching  the  sermon. 
Rev.  Baker  was  present  at  this  service  also.  The  church  is  a 
one-story  frame  building,  32  by  54  feet,  and  cost  about  $1,800. 
A  number  of  repairs  and  improvements  have  been  macle  to  the 
building  from  time  to  time  and  it  has  thus  been  kept  in  fairly 
good  condition. 

Rev.  S.  Croft,  M.D.,  July  1,  1872,  to  April  1,  1874;  Rev. 
William  H.  Settlemyer,  June  1,  1874,  to  June  1,  1879;  Rev.  J.  J. 
Kerr,  December  18,  1878,  to  October  14,  1881 ;  Rev.  G.  D. 
Gross,  March  1,  1882,  to  June  12,  1883 ;  Rev.  P.  G.  Bell  (supply), 
1883  to  1885;  Rev.  John  Unruh,  November  21,  1886,  to  October 
17,  1888;  Rev.  M.  O.  T.  Sahm,  April  15,  1890,  to  April  1,  1893; 
Rev.  A.  B.  Erhart,  April  15,  1893,  to  June  10,  1897;  Rev.  G.  K. 
Allen,  September  1,  1897,  to  December  5,  1905.  He  was  the 
first  pastor  to  reside  at  Summerhill.  This  change  was  made 
because  it  was  nearer  the  center  of  the  charge. 

Rev.  W.  L.  Leisher,  April  15,  1907,  to  November  16,  1908; 
762 


WILMORE  (JEFFERSON) 


Rev.  J.  T.  Fox,  February  23,  1909,  to  September  1,  1910;  Rev. 
G.  D.  Gross  served  then  for  the  second  time,  December  1,  19 10, 
to  May  1,  1913;  Rev.  F.  S.  Shultz,  November  1,  1913  — . 

The  Croyle  and  Paul  families  have  been  connected  with  this 
church  from  the  beginning.  The  fifth  generation  of  the  former 
family  and  the  fourth  of  the  latter  are  still  loyal  to  the  church 
of  their  fathers. 

The  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  of  Wilmore  (Jeffer- 
son), Pa. 

The  founder  of  this  church  was  George  Settlemyer,  born  in 
Penn's  Valley,  Centre  County,  in  1801.  He  came  to  Cambria 
County  with  his  father  when  but  a  small  boy  and  located  in  the 
vicinity  of  Wilmore,  where  he  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life. 
In  those  early  days  churches  and  Sunday  schools  were  few  and 
far  between  in  the  county,  but  that  was  no  hindrance  to  young 
Settlemyer  for  he  walked  regularly  from  Wilmore  to  Ebensburg, 
a  distance  of  seven  miles,  to  attend  Sunday  school  and  preaching 
in  the  Congregational  Church.  As  a  young  man  George  desired 
to  join  the  church  of  his  fathers.  There  being  none  in  the 
community  he  walked  fifty  miles  across  the  mountains  and  was 
confirmed  in  the  Lutheran  Church  at  Newry.  Shortly  after  this 
he  became  interested  in  establishing  a  church  in  his  community, 
and  mainly  through  his  efforts  a  union  church  was  built  at 
Wilmore.  But  it  was  not  long  until  the  church  became  financially 
involved  and  was  sold  for  debt.  George  Settlemyer  bought  the 
building  and  permitted  it  to  be  used  as  a  union  church. 

It  was  not  until  1844  and  1845  tnat  distinctive  Lutheran  serv- 
ices began  to  be  held.  Then  Revs.  Rightmeyer  and  Bosserman 
preached  here  occasionally.  In  1848,  when  Rev.  P.  Sahm  was 
called  to  the  pastorate  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church,  of  Johns- 
town, he  began  to  preach  here  more  regularly,  and  on  May  11, 
185 1,  he  organized  a  congregation  of  twenty-six  charter  mem- 
bers and  held  the  first  communion  on  the  same  date.  Rev. 
Sahm  continued  to  supply  until  April  1,  1853,  when  he  resigned 
Johnstown. 

From  this  time  on  the  First  Church  of  Johnstown  required 
all  the  time  of  its  pastors,  so  the  German  Lutheran  pastors  there 
supplied  the  mission  until  they  procured  a  regular  pastor.     The 

763 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


first  German  pastor  to  supply  was  Rev.  Kleis,  and  then  Rev. 
C.  C.  Brandt,  who  at  the  meeting  of  Synod  in  1854  requested 
the  Synod  to  look  after  certain  points  in  Cambria  County,  when 
the  following  action  was  taken : 

"Resolved,  That  $50  be  appropriated  to  the  Jefferson  Mission 
provided  a  missionary  can  be  procured  to  labor  in  that  field  and 
cannot  be  sustained  by  the  people  in  said  field  by  applying  to  the 
executive  committee  of  the  Home  Missionary  Society." 

But  there  was  no  man  available  so  Rev.  Brentz  continued  as 
supply  until  November  1,   1855,  when  Rev.  J.  Bell,  principal  of 


THE     EVANGELICAL     LUTHERAN     CHURCH     OF     W1LMORE,     PA. 

the  Johnstown  Academy,  was  secured  as  a  supply  and  served  for 
two  years.  The  Home  Missionary  Society  contributed  $100 
toward  his  support. 

On  April  1,  1859,  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman  took  charge  as  the' 
first  regular  resident  pastor  residing  at  Wilmore.  At  the  close 
of  the  first  year  of  his  ministry  the  mission  became  self- 
supporting.  It  was  during  his  ministry  that  the  Jackson  Church 
was  organized,  and  in  1862  the  first  parsonage  was  purchased 
at  a  cost  of  $603.21. 
764 


ST.  PAUL'S  (JACKSON) 


The  naines  of  the  pastors  and  the  length  of  their  service  will 
be  found  in  the  history  of  the  Summerhill  congregation. 

Early  in  1873,  under  the  ministry  of  Rev.  S.  Croft,  M.D.,  the 
building  of  a  new  church  was  begun  on  a  new  site  donated  by 
Mr.  George  Settlemyer.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  on  July  19, 
1873,  Rev.  Dr.  Fink,  of  Johnstown,  preaching  the  sermon.  The 
church  was  not  finished  until  late  the  following  year.  In  the 
meantime  Rev.  William  H.  Settlemyer,  a  son  of  the  congrega- 
tion, had  become  the  pastor.  The  new  church  was  dedicated  on 
November  8,  1874,  Rev.  F.  W.  Conrad,  D.D.,  of  Philadelphia, 
Pa.,  preaching  the  dedicatory  sermon. 

The  church  is  a  two-story  frame  building,  38  by  60  feet,  with 
a  spire  almost  100  feet  high.  The  building  cost  about  $5,000. 
Mr.  George  Settlemyer  again  showed  his  liberality  by  contribut- 
ing $1,000  besides  material  and  labor. 

About  1887,  a  new  parsonage  was  bought  for  $600. 

On  June  10,  1897,  Rev.  A.  B.  Erhart,  in  the  midst  of  his 
years  of  usefulness,  died  very  suddenly. 

In  1898,  a  new  parsonage  was  built  at  Summerhill  and  the 
pastor  moved  from  Wilmore. 

In  1912  and  1913,  quite  a  number  of  repairs  were  made  to 
the  church,  such  as  new  slate  roof,  concrete  sills,  with  steps  and 
walk,  painting  without,  plastering,  papering  and  carpeting 
within,  all  at  a  cost  of  about  $1,500,  so  that  the  church  building 
is  now  in  very  good  condition. 

The  Settlemyers  have  always  been  loyal  and  faithful  to  the 
church.  Just  recently  George  Lloyd,  a  great  grandson  of  the 
founder  of  the  church,  was  received  by  baptism. 

St.  Paul's  (Jackson)  Lutheran  Church 
This  is  strictly  a  country  church,  there  being  no  other  buildings 
within  one-eighth  of  a  mile.  As  early  as  the  forties  some  of 
the  older  people  drove  or  rode  horseback  to  Summerhill  to 
church.  About  1856,  Rev.  Lewis  J.  Bell  preached  occasionally 
in  what  was  then  known  as  Burkhart's  Schoolhouse.  In  1859, 
when  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman  took  charge  of  the  Jefferson  Mission 
he  at  once  became  more  interested  in  the  Jackson  people  and 
on  October  T3,  i860,  he  organized  the  congregation  with  thirty- 
five  charter  members.     A  plot  of  ground  for  church  and  ceme- 

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SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


tery  purposes  was  donated  by  Mr.  S.  P.  Dunmeyer  and  Mrs. 
Elizabeth  Slonaker.  The  church  was  erected  in  the  fall  of 
1 86 1,  and  dedicated  on  February  23,  1862,  and  cost  about  $800. 
This  building  has  served  these  loyal  people  all  these  years,  but  it 
is  much  the  worse  for  the  wear  and  needs  to  be  replaced  by  a 
new  one  which  we  hope  will  come  in  a  very  short  time.  The 
list  of  pastors  and  their  time  of  service  will  be  found  in  the 
history  of  the  Summerhill  congregation. 

In  this  church  the  names  of  Roherbaugh  and  Paul  have  con- 
tinued from  the  beginning  until  now,  when  the  fourth  and  fifth 


st.  Paul's  (jackson)  Lutheran  church 

generations  are  still  active.  Mr.  D.  M.  Funk,  a  great-grandson 
of  Adam  Roherbaugh,  one  of  the  founders  of  the  congregation, 
is  now  in  college  at  Gettysburg  preparing  to  enter  the  ministry. 


WELLERSBURG  PASTORATE 

Sketches  by  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D. 

The  Mt.  Carmel  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 

When  the  Rev.  Christian  Lepley  was  pastor  of  the  Frostburg 
pastorate  in  1842,  he  began  to  preach  in  a  schoolhouse  on  the 
Plank  Road  east  of  Wittenburg,  Pa.,  at  a  place  then  called 
White  Oak.  This  house  had  been  built  for  school  purposes  and 
766 


MT.  C  ARM  EL 


preaching  services.  After  preaching  in  this  building  at  various 
times  for  two  years  he  organized,  in  1844,  a  congregation  in 
the  name  and  title  of  "The  Mt.  Carmel  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church,  of  Larimer  Township,  Somerset  County,  Pa. 

In  the  spring  of  1847,  this  church  united  with  the  Reformed 
congregation  in  building  a  union  church  to  be  used  for  the  pur- 
poses of  both  organizations,  each  occupying  it  on  every  alternate 


MT.    CARMEL 


Sunday.  This  church  was  a  small  frame  one-story  building,  35 
by  45  feet,  and  is  said  to  have  cost  about  $1,200.  The  corner- 
stone was  laid  in  the  month  of  A  lav,  1847.  The  sermon  of  the 
occasion  was  preached  by  Rev.  William  Uhl,  of  Somerset.  It 
was  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  God,  free  of  debt,  on  September 
28,  in  the  same  year,  by  Rev.  Christian  Lepley.  of  the  Lutheran 
Church,  and  the  Rev.  Benjamin  Knepper,  of  the  Reformed. 

767 


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For  forty-four  years  this  church  was  used  jointly  by  the 
Lutheran  and  Reformed  congregations  until  on  May  10,  1891, 
the  Lutheran  people  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  the  Triune  God 
a  new  church  of  their  own  on  a  lot  but  a  few  rods  from  where 
the  old  church  then  stood.  In  this  most  comfortable  sanctuary, 
which  is  also  one  of  the  most  beautiful  country  churches  in 
Somerset  County,  the  congregation  is  now  worshiping  and  has 
been  for  the  last  twenty  years.     Cost,  $4,500. 

Soon  after  the  organization  of  the  Mt.  Carmel  Church  the 
Rev.  Christian  Lepley,  still  pastor  of  the  Frostburg  pastorate  and 
finding  that  he  had  more  places  to  preach  than  he  could  well 
attend  to,  was  compelled  to  make  other  arrangements  for  the  new 
congregation.  Therefore,  we  find  that  on  January  1,  1845,  the 
Rev.  John  Gaver,  whether  as  pastor  or  supply  or  in  connection 
with  some  other  congregations  does  not  appear,  took  charge  of 
this  church  and  served  them  for  one  year  when  death  claimed 
him  as  its  victim  and  ended  his  labors  on  earth.  From  January 
1,  1846,  to  April  1,  1849,  Rev.  Christian  Lepley  seems  to  have 
preached  for  them  occasionally  and  also  exercised  a  general 
supervision  over  their  affairs.  On  or  about  the  latter  date  stated 
above,  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Lawson  became  the  pastor  of  the  Salis- 
bury charge  and  supplied  the  Mt.  Carmel  Church  during  the 
years  he  preached  for  that  pastorate. 

In  1 85 1,  the  Wellersburg  charge  was  formed  consisting  of 
some  five  congregations,  one  of  which  was  Mt.  Carmel,  which 
was  organized  as  we  have  seen  some  time  in  the  year  1844. 
From  this  time  on  up  to  the  present,  the  ministers  who  served 
this  pastorate  preached  also  at  Mt.  Carmel.  This  church,  there- 
fore, has  had  sixteen  pastors  as  follows : 

Rev.  Peter  S.  Nellis,  from  June,  1852,  to  November  9,  1853; 
Rev.  Charles  Witmer,  from  February  19,  1854,  to  1857;  Rev. 
Christian  Lepley,  the  second  time,  from  1857  to  1859;  Rev. 
Alex.  Cupp,  from  i860  to  his  death  in  1862;  Rev.  Isaac  Augus- 
tine, from  1863  to  1864;  Rev.  J.  N.  A.  Kitzmiller,  from  January 
15,  1865,  to  January  3,  1869;  Rev.  A.  M.  Strause,  from  Novem- 
ber 1,  1869,  to  April  1,  1873;  Rev.  W.  E.  Crebs,  from  1874  to 
1875;  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler,  from  April  15,  1876,  to  1884;  Rev. 
J.  P.  Schnure,  from  September  10,  1886,  to  1888;  Rev.  Emile 
Shultz,  from  June  14,  1889,  to  1890;  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D., 
768 


MT.  CARMEL 


from  1890  to  1891  ;  Rev.  O.  H.  Gruver,  from  1893  to  1895  ;  Rev. 
S.  J.  Ulrich,  from  1896  to  1899;  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  sec- 
ond time,  from  1900  to  his  death,  1904;  Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D., 
from  1905  to  1915. 

It  will  be  noticed  that  in  the  above  list  of  pastors  the  name  of 
Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  appears  twice.  In  1890,  after  the 
Meversdale  Church,  of  which  he  was  pastor,  determined  to 
undertake  alone  the  support  of  the  minister,  Dr.  Young  assumed 
charge  of  the  churches  which  had  withdrawn  from  the  Meyers- 
dale  pastorate  and  had  been  formed  into  a  new  charge.    In  addi- 


ADAM    POORBAUGH 


tion,  however,  to  his  regular  services  in  the  new  St.  Paul's 
parish,  he  supplied  the  Mt.  Carmel  with  preaching  and  superin- 
tended the  work  of  arranging  for  and  the  building  of  a  new 
church.  He  continued  to  serve  them  until  the  new  church  was 
erected  and  dedicated,  and  a  minister  was  secured  in  the  person 
of  the  Rev.  O.  H.  Gruver,  who  was  elected  as  pastor  of  the 
Wellersburg  charge. 

The  Mt.  Carmel  Church,  as  you  will  see  by  the  picture  accom- 
panying this  article,  is  a  neat  frame  structure  with  auditorium 
and  Sunday  school  room  connected  by  folding  doors.     It  has 

769 


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a  graceful  tower,  66  feet  in  height,  in  which  hangs  a  large 
McShane  bell.  The  ceiling  is  finished  with  wood  laid  off  in 
panels.  All  the  windows  are  of  fine  art  glass,  memorials  of 
those  whose  names  they  bear.  They  were  placed  in  the  church 
by  those  who  desired  to  remember  and  honor  their  departed 
loved  ones.  One  of  these  windows  is  memorial  of  Rev.  M.  F. 
Pfahler,  who  was  pastor  of  the  congregation  during  the  last 
twelve  years  of  his  active  ministry  and  of  the  members  of  his 
family  who  had  then  gone  to  their  reward.  This  window  was 
presented  by  his  son,  John  H.  Pfahler,  of  Meyersdale. 

The  most  beautiful  memorial  as  well  as  the  most  costly,  per- 
haps, was  presented  by  Adam  Poorbaugh  in  remembrance  of  his 
daughter.  Mr.  Poorbaugh  also  gave  to  the  church  a  large  Frink 
reflector,  and  after  the  building  was  erected  provided  an  iron 
fence  in  front  of  the  edifice.  He  was  a  sincere  and  truly  humble 
Christian  man,  for  many  years  a  devoted  and  useful  member  of 
the  church,  and  honored  and  beloved  by  all  who  knew  him.  At 
his  death,  which  occurred  April  30,  1900,  it  was  discovered  that 
he  had  bequeathed  to  the  trustees  of  Mt.  Carmel  Church  and 
their  successors  in  office  the  sum  of  $650,  the  interest  of  which 
is  to  be  used  toward  the  pastor's  salary  or  any  other  debts  of 
the  congregation,  a  praiseworthy  example  of  benevolence  and  one 
to  be  commended  to  those  whom  God  has  blessed  with  worldly 
prosperity. 

At  the  same  time  he  also  bequeathed  $100  to  the  Somerset 
County  Evangelical  Lutheran  Conference  of  the  Alleghany  Synod, 
to  be  used  by  the  said  Conference  toward  establishing  a  collegiate 
institution  which  they  then  contemplated  establishing  in  Somerset 
County.  But  as  there  was  no  probability  that  such  an  institution 
would  be  established  in  the  near  future,  if  at  all,  and  as  al! 
projects  toward  that  end  had  been  abandoned,  the  Conference 
at  its  meeting  held  in  the  month  of  November,  1910,  unani- 
mously passed  a  resolution  which  was  copied  in  the  minutes, 
directing  the  treasurer  to  refund  the  one  hundred  dollars  held 
by  the  Conference  to  the  heirs  of  the  donor,  Adam  Poorbaugh. 
With  as  little  delay  as  possible  the  Rev.  W.  H.  B.  Carney,  treas- 
urer of  the  Conference,  paid  to  Herman  B.  Beal,  the  only  sur- 
viving heir-at-law,  the  sum  of  $100  above  mentioned. 

Believing  that  such  a  disposition  of  this  money  would  be  most 
770 


MT.  C  ARM  EL 


in  accordance  with  the  wishes  of  the  original  testator,  Air.  Beal 
gave  the  $100  to  the  present  trustees  of  the  Alt.  Carmel  Church 
and  their  successors  in  office  on  the  same  conditions  as  those 
specified  in  the  will  of  the  late  Adam  Poorbaugh.  "The  Poor- 
baugh  Fund,"  now  in  the  hands  of  the  trustees  of  the  Mt.  Carmel 
Church,  the  interest  of  which  is  to  be  paid  annually  for  the 
benefit  of  the  church  is  seven  hundred  and  fifty  dollars. 

Some  ten  years  after  he  had  superintended  the  erection  of  the 
Mt.  Carmel  Church,  Dr.  Young  again  regularly  supplied  both 
the  congregations  still  remaining  in  the  Wellersburg  charge.  In 
1900,  he  was  assisted  by  Rev.  B.  B.  Collins,  pastor  of  the  Meyers- 
dale  Church,  and  by  Dr.  Johnston,  pastor  of  the  Salisbury  charge. 
For  the  next  two  years  he  did  all  the  preaching  in  these  two 
churches.  But  when,  in  1903,  he  became  pastor  of  St.  Stephen's, 
Cumberland,  Md.,  his  ministerial  duties  accumulated  to  such  an 
extent  that  he  could  no  longer  do  the  necessary  preaching.  By 
an  arrangement  satisfactory  to  the  Mt.  Carmel  congregation  he 
secured  the  assistance  of  Dr.  E.  S.  Johnston,  who  preached  for 
that  church  once  a  month,  from  January  1,  1903,  to  December  31, 
1904.  This  relation  was  dissolved  by  a  Power  stronger  than  any 
human  agency.  Dr.  Young  continued  to  discharge  his  part  of  the 
ministerial  and  pastoral  duties  until  within  two  weeks  of  his 
death,  which  occurred  at  his  residence  in  Cumberland,  Md.,  on 
Monday  morning,  December  12,  1904,  in  the  fifty-first  year  of 
his  age. 

Dr.  Young  was  a  man  of  clear  and  decided  opinions.  He  was 
an  honest  man,  a  true  friend,  a  genial  companion,  a  sincere 
Christian  and  a  clear,  earnest,  instructive  preacher.  The  esteem 
in  which  his  memory  is  held  by  this  community  in  which  he  was 
well  known  is  manifest  on  every  hand,  and  the  respect  with 
which  his  name  is  mentioned,  his  memory  cherished,  his  opinions 
quoted  and  his  practices  approved  furnish  strong  evidence  of  the 
scope  of  his  mind  and  the  breadth  of  his  character.  "He  being 
dead  yet  speaketh." 

On  January  1,  1905,  a  few  weeks  after  the  death  of  Dr.  Young, 
Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  became  pastor  of  the  Wellersburg 
pastorate,  and  served  until  December  31,  1914,  when  he  resigned 
from  active  work  as  a  pastor,  having  attained  the  age  of  eighty- 
one  years.     This  church  reported  to  Synod  at  the  end  of  the 

771 


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Synodical  year,  August  31,  1914,  ninety-five  communicant  mem- 
bers, 115  confirmed  members  and  210  baptized  members,  and  a 
contribution  for  benevolence  during  the  year  of  $137. 

Mr.  Herman  Beal,  for  many  years  a  faithful  member  and 
officer  of  this  congregation,  at  his  death  a  few  years  ago,  made  a 
substantial  bequest  to  the  congregation.  This  bequest  has  been 
invested  and  the  interest  applied  to  the  salary  of  the  pastor  and 
the  benevolence  of  the  church. 

The  past  few  years  the  congregation  has  been  having  supplies 
in  the  persons  of  Mr.  A.  W.  Smith,  a  student  of  Susquehanna 
University;  Rev.  J.  T.  Shaffer,  and  Mr.  F.  R.  Crossland,  a 
student  of  Susquehanna. 

Zion  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
wellersburg,  pa. 

The  Zion  Church,  in  Wellersburg,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  was 
originally  built  of  logs,  probably  in  about  181 5,  but  the  time  is 
by  no  means  certain.  It  was  to  be  conjointly  used  on  alternate 
Sundays  by  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  and  the  Reformed  con- 
gregations. The  relationships  existing  among  their  members  and 
their  associations  were  so  intimate  that  they  held  the  church 
property  in  common  and  in  the  main  recognized  but  one  form 
of  government. 

Some  time  between  1820  and  1825,  this  building  gave  place 
to  another  also  of  logs.  This  church  was  as  near  as  possible  a 
perfect  cube,  with  galleries  on  three  sides  and  a  very  high  pulpit. 
In  the  forties  it  was  weather-boarded  inside  and  out  at  a  cost, 
perhaps,  of  $1,000,  which  added  not  only  to  its  appearance  but 
also  greatly  to  the  comfort  of  the  worshiping  congregations. 
For  years  it  has  been  used  by  the  borough  as  a  schoolhouse  and 
perhaps  for  other  purposes.  It  stands  on  the  southeastern  corner 
of  a  plot  of  ground  of  about  an  acre,  which  has  been  used  for 
many  years  as  a  cemetery  and  in  which  the  dead  are  still  buried. 

On  the  western  side  of  this  plot  in  1856,  the  present  church 
was  erected.  It  is  a  brick  building,  38  by  50  feet,  with  a  base- 
ment, tower  and  bell,  and  is  said  to  have  cost  $2,500.  Within 
the  last  few  years  stained  glass  of  fine  quality  has  been  placed  in 
the  windows  by  loving  ones  in  memory  of  departed  friends.  Two 
772 


ZION,    WELLERSBURG 


of  these  windows  are  in  honor  of  two  former  pastors  who  were 
then  living,  Rev.  Christian  Lepley,  of  the  Lutheran,  and  Rev. 
Benjamin  Knepper,  of  the  Reformed  Church,  and  a  third  one 
is  "in  memoriam"  of  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  who  was  pastor 
of  the  church  at  the  time  of  his  death.  The  old  tower  has  been 
replaced  by  a  new  and  very  tasteful  belfry,  and  the  whole  of  the 
exterior  of  the  building  painted  and  penciled  at  a  cost  of  about 
$600.  All  has  added  greatly  to  the  attractiveness  of  the  church. 
The    Wellersburg   Lutheran    Church    dates    its    origin    on    or 


ZION   LUTHERAN   CHURCH 

about  the  year  1803,  and  is,  therefore,  one  of  the  oldest  congre- 
gations in  Somerset  County.  As  the  records  for  the  first  dozen 
years  were  not  kept  at  all  or  have  been  lost,  the  history  of  the 
first  decade  of  its  existence  is  wholly  dependent  upon  very 
unreliable  tradition.  It  is  said  that  the  Rev.  Mr.  Hanker 
preached  here  in  1803,  but  whether  he  preached  only  occasionally 
or  was  the  pastor  for  a  number  of  years  is  not  known  and  cannot 
now  be  determined.  Equally  uncertain  is  the  tradition  that  the 
Rev.  Philip  Mockenhaupt,  who  passed  for  a  Lutheran  minister 

773 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


but  was  a  member  of  no  Synod  and  kept  no  records  of  his 
ministerial  acts,  preached  for  the  congregation  during  the  two 
years  of  1814  and  1815. 

At  first  Wellersburg  was  connected  with  the  Cumberland 
Lutheran  Church  and  was  one  of  the  many  stations  that  belonged 
to  that  pastorate,  and  was  served  by  the  ministers  who  had 
charge  of  that  congregation.  The  Rev.  C.  F.  Heyer  was  pastor 
from  1818  to  1825.  In  speaking  of  his  constantly  increasing 
labors  Mr.  Heyer  declares  that  his  appointments  from  east  to 
west  extended  to  about  eighty  miles ;  that  frequently  he  was 
absent  from  home  a  whole  week  at  a  time  and  that  generally  he 
attended  to  ten  or  eleven  appointments  before  he  returned. 

The  other  pastors  who  came  from  Cumberland,  Md.,  were, 
viz. : 

Rev.  Henry  Haverstick,  from  1829  to  1832 ;  Rev.  John  Kehler, 
from  1833  to  1839;  Rev,  Jesse  Winecoff,  from  1840  to  1842. 

During  the  year  1841,  a  new  pastorate  was  formed  consisting 
of  Frostburg,  Md.,  Wellersburg,  Kennells  Mills,  Comps,  Fair- 
hope,  Greenville,  etc.  Of  this  pastorate  the  Rev.  Christian 
Lepley  took  charge  in  1842  and  consequently  became  pastor  of 
the  Wellersburg  congregation  in  that  year  and  served  it  till  his 
resignation  of  the  Frostburg  charge  in  1857,  a  period  of  nine 
years.  Up  to  this  time  the  Wellersburg  Church  belonged  to  the 
Maryland  Synod.  All  her  pastors,  five  in  number,  were  of  that 
reverend  body.  All  Synodical  reports  were  made  to  it  and  will 
be  found  in  the  records  of  that  Synod. 

In  185 1,  the  Wellersburg  pastorate  was  formed  consisting  of 
six  congregations,  Wellersburg,  Comps,  Kennells  Mills,  Fairhope, 
Greenville  and  Mt.  Carmel,  a  new  congregation  organized  in 
1844  by  Rev.  Christian  Lepley  while  pastor  of  the  Frostburg 
charge.  On  application  the  new  Wellersburg  charge  was  taken 
under  the  care  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  and  thus  became  a  mem- 
ber of  the  Somerset  County  conference,  and  has  remained  an 
integral  part  of  that  body  up  to  the  present  time. 

Fifteen  ministers  have  had  charge  of  the  congregation  since 
the  year  1851,  viz. : 

Rev.  Peter  Nellis,  from  1852  to  1853;  Rev.  Charles  Witmer, 
from  1854  to  1857;  Rev.  Christian  Lepley,  the  second  time,  from 
1857  to  1859;  Rev.  Alexander  Cupp,  from  i860  to  his  death, 
774 


ZION,  WELLERSBURG 


1862;  Rev.  Isaac  Augustine,  from  1863  to  1864;  Rev.  J.  H.  A. 
Kitzmiller,  from  1865  to  1869;  Rev.  A.  M.  Strause,  from  1870 
to  1872;  Rev.  W.  E.  Crebbs,  from  1873  to  1874;  Rev.  M.  F. 
Pfahler,  from  1876  to  1884;  Rev.  J.  P.  Schnure,  from  1886  to 
1889;  Rev.  Emile  Schultz,  from  1889  to  1890;  Rev.  O.  H. 
Gruver,  from  1893  to  1895 ;  Rev.  S.  J.  Ulrich,  from  1896  to 
1899;  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  from  1890  to  his  death,  1904; 
Rev.  E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  from  1905  to  191 5. 

On  August  18,  18 14,  John  Korns  conveyed  a  parcel  of  ground 
in  the  Borough  of  Wellersburg,  containing  sixteen  and  one-half 
acres  to  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  and  the  German  Reformed 
congregations.  During  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff 
in  1840,  these  congregations  were  incorporated  by  the  legislature 
of  Pennsylvania  under  the  name  and  title  of  "The  Lutheran  and 
German  Reformed  Corporation."  Charles  Uhl  and  Samuel 
Gaumer,  in  behalf  of  the  Lutherans,  and  Peter  Riber  and  John 
Kennell,  in  behalf  of  the  German  Reformed,  were  the  charter 
trustees.  These  trustees  or  their  successors  have  had  control 
of  the  church  property  from  that  time  to  the  present. 

In  January,  1842,  the  trustees  called  a  public  meeting  of  both 
congregations.  At  this  meeting  the  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff  was 
chosen  president,  and  Samuel  D.  Witt  was  selected  as  secretary. 
By  a  majority  of  seventeen  votes  it  was : 

Resolved  first,  That  certain  lots  be  disposed  of  at  public  sale. 

Resolved  second,  That  no  whole  lot  shall  be  sold  for  less  than 
$50. 

Resolved  third,  That  if  the  lots  cannot  be  sold  for  $50  or  more 
they  shall  be  leased  or  rented  for  a  term  of  years. 

By  the  authority  thus  given  the  trustees  have  at  different  dates 
since  disposed  of  a  certain  number  of  lots  by  sale  or  by  lease 
for  the  term  of  ninety-nine  years.  The  money  thus  secured  has 
been  used  by  the  trustees  for  the  repairs  or  the  betterment  of 
the  church  property  as  the  congregations  order  or  the  circum- 
stances require. 

By  the  will  of  William  Troutman.  a  life-long  and  much- 
beloved  member  of  the  Lutheran  Church  and  who  entered  upon 
his  heavenly  reward  April  18,  1906,  the  Lutheran  congregation 
of  Wellersburg,  Pa.,  received  a  legacy  of  $300,  the  interest  of 
which  is  to  be  used  toward  the  pastor's  salary.     And  John  G. 

775 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


Witt,  who,  from  young  manhood  to  old  age,  was  a  devoted, 
honored  and  beloved  member  of  the  same  church,  and  who  with 
Mr.  Troutman  had  witnessed  its  multitudinous  and  varied  experi- 
ences and  who  survived  him  but  a  few  days  over  a  month,  left 
to  the  same  congregation  and  on  the  same  conditions  a  bequest 
of  $250.  These  bequests,  amounting  to  $550,  were  duly  paid 
over  and  are  now  fulfilling  the  wishes  of  their  kind  and  lorig-to- 
be-remembered  donors. 

During  the  sixty  years  in  which  the  Wellersburg  Church  has 
been  a  member  of  the  Somerset  County  Conference  they  enjoyed 


JOHN   A.    WITT 


WILLIAM    TROUTMAN 


the  privilege  of  entertaining  that  body  but  twice,  the  first  time 
on  July  12,  1 88 1,  when  Rev.  M.  F.  Pfahler  was  the  pastor,  and 
the  second  time  on  April  23,  1901,  when  Rev.  M.  L.  Young, 
Ph.D.,  was  the  pastor.  The  church  and  the  community  do  not 
remember  what  the  Conference  did  or  said  or  resolved  while 
they  were  holding  their  sessions  in  Wellersburg,  but  such  a 
body  of  Christian  men,  ministers  of  Christ,  preachers  of  the  gos- 
pel and  heralds  of  salvation  to  the  lost  could  not  fail  to  leave  an 
influence  for  good  upon  all  with  whom  they  came  in  contact. 
The  only  regret  is  that  they  could  not  have  come  oftener,  for 
776 


ZION,  GERMAN,  JOHNSTOWN 


while  they  were  here  they  taught  the  church  what  a  grand  thing 
it  is  to  work  for  Christ  and  for  the  good  of  humanity,  and 
when  they  were  gone  Christian  men  must  have  found  their  own 
souls  strengthened  and  all  the  energies  of  the  Church  multiplied. 

In  1899,  Comps  reported  ten  members,  Kennell  Mills  nine  and 
Fairhope  fifteen ;  nothing  for  benevolence  and  nothing  for  local 
expenses.  Being  so  few  in  membership  and  some  of  these  ready 
to  move  away  as  soon  as  they  could  elsewhere  better  their  finan- 
cial condition ;  frequently  without  preaching  for  months  at  a 
time,  and  with  no  prospect  whatever  of  ever  being  more  able  to 
sustain  these  organizations,  even  at  their  present  poor  dying 
rate,  they  were  advised  to  connect  themselves  with  the  neigh- 
boring congregations  and  give  up  the  effort.  There  has,  there- 
fore, been  no  regular  Lutheran  service  in  these  places  since 
1900,  and  it  seems  that  these  churches  no  longer  exist.  A  few  of 
them  have  connected  themselves  with  the  Wellersburg  and  Mt. 
Carmel  Churches,  some  of  them  have  died,  others  have  moved 
away  and  a  few,  perhaps,  have  gone  into  other  churches. 

The  Greenville  Church,  which  was  an  integral  part  of  the 
Frostburg  pastorate,  formed  in  1841,  and  sometimes  wrongly 
called  the  Wellersburg  charge,  became  a  part  of  the  Salisbury 
charge  in  1849,  and  nas  remained  a  member  of  that  pastorate  to 
the  present  time. 

For  the  last  ten  years,  therefore,  the  Wellersburg  charge  has 
consisted  of  but  two  congregations,  Wellersburg  and  Mt.  Carmel. 
Though  few  in  numbers,  if  these  churches  will  continue  to  build 
their  hopes  on  faith  in  God  and  make  His  glory  and  the  welfare 
of  men  the  great  object  of  their  being,  they  will  find  as  the 
years  hurry  by  and  the  wheels  of  time  move  onward  that  that 
influence  is  ever  widening  and  that  their  work  is  not  in  vain,  in 
the  Lord. 

777 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


CHURCHES  OF  OTHER  SYNODS 
ZION  GERMAN  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

JOHNSTOWN,  PA. 

(General  Council) 

In  1848,  Rev.  Bosserman,  of  Johnstown,  and  Rev.  Sahm,  of 
Blairsville,  exchanged  charges  because  Rev.  Sahm  could  preach 
in  German  and  the  Germans  of  Johnstown  wanted  German 
preaching.  On  December  3,  1852,  the  Germans  called  a  separate 
pastor  in  the  person  of  Rev.  Theobald  Kleis.  A  lot  of  ground 
corner  Lewis  and  Jackson  Streets  was  secured  and  a  small  frame 
building  for  school  and  church  purposes  erected.  On  October  7, 
1853,  Rev.  Kleis  died.  Alleghany  Synod  passed  a  fitting  reso- 
lution and  Rev.  J.  Martin,  Rev.  Sahm's  successor  in  the  First 
Church,  wrote  an  obituary  for  the  Observer,  in  whose  church 
the  funeral  services  were  held.  He  was  born  in  Meissenheim, 
Baden,  Germany,  September  29,  1829,  and  had  labored  previously 
in  Texas.  He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Brandt,  1853-1854,  Rev. 
Lauser  and  Rev.  Gress.  In  1863,  Rev.  Carl  M.  Taubner,  D.D., 
took  charge  and  united  with  the  Alleghany  Synod,  though  the 
congregation  still  remained  independent. 

During  his  pastorate  a  new  brick  church  and  schoolhouse  were 
erected.  The  church,  size  50  by  75  feet,  cost  $8,000,  and  the 
schoolhouse  $3,000.  He  resigned  in  1877,  and  removed  to  Cali- 
fornia, but  remained  a  member  of  Synod  until  his  death  in  1891, 
at  the  age  of  eighty -five  years. 

He  was  succeeded  by  Revs.  Knortz  and  Height,  the  latter 
resigning  May  1,  1888. 

About  May  1,  1889,  Rev.  John  P.  -Lichtenberg,  of  Utica,  N.  Y., 
took  charge.  On  May  31,  1889,  ne  an(^  n's  family,  of  a  wife 
and  four  children,  were  drowned  in  the  Flood.  He  was  born 
in  Cassel,  Germany,  and  had  studied  at  Hersfeld,  Gymnasium, 
Marburg  University  and  also  at  Basle,  Switzerland,  studying 
here  Arabic  and  Amharic  languages  of  Abyssinia  that  he  might 
go  thither  as  a  missionary.  He  was  prevented  by  the  war  against 
this  country  by  Great  Britain  in  1867,  and  came  to  Philadelphia, 
where  he  entered  Mt.  Airy  Seminary.  His  body  and  that  of  his 
wife  were  taken  to  Philadelphia.  Those  of  his  children  were 
not  recovered. 

77S 


WINDBER 


The  church  property  valued  at  $30,000  was  all  swept  away, 
and  of  the  450  communicants  less  than  half  survived,  a  greater 
loss  than  any  other  congregation  suffered.  Towards  a  new  plant 
the  congregation  received  a  gift  of  $4,016,  and  a  schoolhouse  was 
again  built.  July  20,  1890,  Rev.  Paul  Glasow  became  pastor  and 
a  new  church  was  built  and  dedicated  May  3,  1891,  the  cost  of 
the  new  building  being  $29,000.  The  congregation,  which  had 
hitherto  been  independent  of  all  Synodical  relations,  now  became 
a  member  of  the  Pittsburgh  Synod  of  the  General  Council. 


THE  SWEDISH  LUTHERAN  CHURCH 

WINDBER,   PA. 

In  the  new  town  of  Windber  the  Swedes  were  among  the  first 
church  organizations  to  erect  a  place  of  worship. 

Their  church  has  a  beautiful  location  on  the  corner  of  Somer- 
set Avenue  and  Tenth  Street,  and  was  built  in  1900.  The  edifice 
is  30  by  46  feet,  has  two  stories,  and  the  present  value  is  estimated 
at  $4,500. 

The  latest  conference  report  gives  the  number  of  members 
ninety-two  with  forty-eight  communicants.  The  ministers  have 
always  resided  elsewhere,  Rev.  Andrew  Palmer,  Houtzdale ;  O. 
Chilleen,  Irwin ;  N.  P.  Anseen,  Greensburg ;  E.  Rehner,  Win- 
burne ;  T.  N.  Anderson,  Houtzdale,  having  served  it. 


SLOVAK  LUTHERANS 
OF  JOHNSTOWN  AND  WINDBER,   PA. 

The  Swedish  Lutheran  Church  of  Windber  is  also  used  as  a 
place  of  worship  by  the  Slovak  Lutherans  who  meet  the  fourth 
Sunday  of  every  month. 

Rev.  D.  Koachala,  pastor  of  Slovaks  of  Johnstown,  took  charge 
of  the  mission  when  it  was  organized,  some  time  before  1906. 
The  business  of  the  organization  is  transacted  by  the  minister 
and  a  benevolent  society  known  as  S.  E.  J.,  No.  14. 

The  following  information  concerning  the  Slovak  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Synod  of  America,  compiled  by  the  Department  of 
Commerce  and  Labor  as  a  part  of  the  Eleventh  Census,  may  be 
of  interest:  Number  of  organizations,  fifty-nine;  members, 
12,141;  church  edifices,  twenty-nine;  halls,  thirty;  value  of 
church  property,  $219,300;  Sunday  schools,  twelve;  enrollment, 

779 


SOMERSET  CONFERENCE 


585.  One-half  of  the  members,  church  buildings,  etc.,  are  in 
Pennsylvania.  For  the  purpose  of  assisting  needy  members  of  the 
churches  aid  societies  have  been  formed  and  united  under  the 
name  of  the  "Slovak  Evangelical  Union  of  America."  Of  these, 
there  are  192  men's  societies  with  a  membership  of  7,000,  and 
thirty-eight  women's  societies  with  a  membership  of  1,000.  (Cen- 
sus of   1910.) 

The  first  congregation  was  gathered  at  Streator,  111.,  in  1885, 
and  was  followed  by  others  at  Freeland  and  Nanticoke,  Pa.,  all 
under  the  care  of  the  Rev.  Cyril  Drope,  a  member  of  the  Penn- 
sylvania Ministerium.  The  Synod  has  no  college.  In  1906, 
twenty-six  students  were  in  Lutheran  institutions  of  other 
Synods.  There  are  four  parochial  schools  with  175  pupils. 
Nearly  every  congregation  has  a  Saturday  school  in  which  the 
catechism  and  hymns  are  taught  in  the  Slovak  language. 


THE  JOHNSBURG  CHARGE 
(Missouri  Synod) 
Pine  Hill  Congregation 
The  Missouri  Lutheran  congregation  at  Pine  Hill  was  com- 
posed of  members  of  the  General  Synod  congregation  who  were 
dissatisfied  with  Rev.  Fair,  the  pastor,  and  with  the  refusal  of 
the  Alleghany  Synod  to  sanction  their  withdrawal  in  1857  from 
the  Berlin  pastorate.  As  German  was  the  only  language  used  by 
the  first  pastor  Rev.  Bilz,  and  as  he  was  more  strictly  Lutheran 
than  the  General  Synod  pastors  of  those  days  those  who  preferred 
the  German  and  the  liturgical  services  came  from  far  and  near  and 
formed  for  a  while  a  strong,  congregation.  They  held  the 
"Union"  Lutheran  and  German  Reformed  building  here  under 
ruling  from  the  court,  and  prospered  for  some  years.  With  the 
building  of  the  new  St.  Michael's  Lutheran  Church  (General 
Synod)  in  1861,  and  the  introduction  there  of  the  English  lan- 
guage, the  young  people  naturally  joined  the  new  church.  The 
result  was  that  this  congregation  died  out  and  the  church  building 
with  the  ground  was  transferred  by  the  surviving  members,  John 
Gumbert,  Peter  Gumbert,  Henry  Gumbert  and  Peter  Baker,  the 
last  three  joining  the  General  Synod  congregation,  to  the  latter, 
together  with  the  residue  of  an  endowment.  The  pastors  since 
780 


TRINITY,    GLEN   SAVAGE 


1865,  following  Rev.  Bilz,  who  preached  at  Pine  Hill,  have  been 
Revs.  H.  Steger,  Sr.,  William  Koehler,  J.  F.  M.  Miller,  C.  Lau- 
terbach,  H.  Steger,  Jr.,  William  Knoke  and  J.  Koerber. 

Johnsburg  Congregation 
St.  John's,  of  Johnsburg,  had  as  a  nucleus  ten  voting  members 
who  organized  in  October,  1863,  and  built  a  frame  church,  32  by 
26  feet,  with  steeple  and  bell,  dedicating  the  same  in  1863,  under 
the  pastoral  oversight  of  Rev.  William  Koehler.  A  parsonage 
was  also  erected  there  at  a  cost  of  $900. 

Trinity  Lutheran   Congregation 

glen  savage,  pa. 

The  congregation  here  was  organized  with  ten  voting  mem- 
bers also,  and  an  edifice,  costing  in  money  about  $500,  size  30  by 
20  feet,  was  built  some  time  later.  The  lot  here  was  donated  by 
Conrad   Schiller. 

781 


0MBECLAJ1D 


'^>c.Q\g.   Iinr.h-  \A-w.lf; 


DIRECTORY  OF  ALLEGHANY  SYNOD 

ACCORDING  TO   CONFERENCES,   AND   MAP,  OF  DATE   1913, 

SHOWING    LOCATION    OF    SOME    OF    THE 

CHURCHES  OF  THAT  TIME 


Northeast 

14.  Altoona — 7  churches. 

10.  Bellwood — 2  churches. 

3.  Clearfield,  English. 

4.  Curwensville — 2  churches. 

1.  Dubois,  Trinity. 

16.  Duncansville. 

12.  East  Altoona. 

15.  Gallitzin — 2  churches. 

19.  Geeseytown. 

6.  Glasgow — 4  churches. 
18.  Hollidaysburg,  Zion. 

13.  Juniata,  Trinity. 

7.  Karthaus — 3  churches. 

2.  Luthersburg — 4  churches. 

22.  Martinsburg — 2  churches. 

17.  Newry — 4  churches. 

5.  New  Millport — 3  churches. 

8.  Philipsburg. 

21.  Roaring  Spring. 

11.  Sinking   Valley — 5   churches. 

9.  Tyrone,  First. 

20.  Williamsburg — 4  churches. 

Somerset 

21.  Addison — 3  churches. 
15.  Berlin,  Trinity. 

20.  Confluence,    Trinity. 

23.  Cumberland,  Md. 

6.  Davidsville — 3  churches. 

18.  Elk  Lick — 4  churches. 
10..  Friedens — 4  churches. 
17.  Garrett — 4  churches. 

14.  Glade — 4  churches. 


7.  Hooversville — 4  churches. 

8.  Jennerstown — 5   churches. 

4.  Johnstown — 4  churches. 

1.  Lilly — 2  churches. 

11.  Lavansville — 2  churches. 
19.  Meyersdale. 

16.  Rockwood — 3  churches. 

5.  Scalp  Level — 2  churches. 

12.  Shanksville — 4  churches. 
3.  South  Fork — 2  churches. 

13.  Somerset. 

9.  Stoyestown — 3  churches. 

2.  Summer  Hill— 3  churches. 
22.  Wellersburg — 2  churches. 
24.  Casebeer,   Christ. 

Juniata 

10.  Bedford,  Trinity. 

11.  Everett,  Zion. 

13.  Friends  Cove — 3  churches. 

2.  Huntingdon,   St.  James'. 

3.  Mill  Creek — 2  churches. 

7.  Hawns — 2  churches. 

6.  Mt.  Union. 

14.  Mt.  Pleasant — 5  churches. 

4.  •  Marklesburg-Saxton — 

2  churches. 
1.  Petersburg — 2  churches. 

16.  Rainsburg — 2  churches. 

15.  Ray's  Hill — 3  churches. 
9.  Schellsburg — 3  churches. 

8.  St.  Clairsville — 4  churches. 

12.  West  End — 4  churches. 

17.  Woodbury — 2  churches. 


CHAPTER  XIV 

THE  SYNOD'S  VOLUNTEERS  FOR  THE  RANKS  OF  THE 
MINISTRY 


The  following  list  contains  the  names,  as  far  as  it  was  possi- 
ble for  the  Editor  to  learn,  of  all  ministers  who  received  aid  from 
this  Synod,  or  entered  the  ministry  from  the  Synod's  territory, 
together  with  the  congregations  from  which  they  came : 


Amick,  G.  W.  W.,  St.  Glairsville. 

Aurand,  Chas.  G.,  Altoona,  Temple. 

Arnold,  Thomas,  Bedford. 

Baker,  C.  W.,  Bakersville. 

Ball.  Jesse  W.,  Ph.D.,  Berlin. 

Barkley,  W.  W.,  Imler,  St.  Clairs- 
ville. 

Bean,  A.  J.,  Center  Line. 

Beckley,  Geo.   H.,  St.   Clairsville. 

Bell,  P.  G.,  Altoona. 

Bergstresser,  H.  C,  Altoona. 

Berkey,  W.  A.,  Jennerstown. 

Berkey,  H.  E.,  Stoyestown. 

Berkey,  C.   E.,  Stoyestown. 

Boyer,  M.  G.,  D.D.,  Marklesburg. 

Bright,  W.  Luther. 

Brubaker,  Jno.,  D.D.,  Berlin. 

Brugh,  Harry  A.,  Bakersville. 

Burket,  J.  W.,  Sinking  Valley. 

Butler,  C.  E..  Lilly. 

Butler,  John  Geo.,  D.D.,  Berlin. 

Collins,  B.  B..  Berlin. 

Coover,  M.,  D.D.,  ist  Johnstown. 

Crissman,  F.  Harry,  Altoona  (2nd). 

Daugherty,  S.  D.,  D.D.,  Blairsville. 

Dickey,  Ephraim,  Pine  Hill. 

Domer,  Samuel,  D.D.,  Antis  (Sa- 
lem). 

Earhart,  David,  Indiana  Co. 

Fisher,  A.  H.  Frank,  Berlin. 

Fisher,   F.    P.,   Half  moon   Valley. 

Fisher,  W.  E.,  D.D.,  Berlin. 

784 


Fleck,  Cyrus  L.,  Sinking  Valley. 
Fleck,  E.  Lee,  Sinking  Valley. 
Fleck,  Henry  R.,  Sinking  Valley. 
Fleck,  L.  N.,  Sinking  Valley. 
Fleck,  Wm.   K.,   Sinking  Valley. 
Flick,  H.  H.,  Sr.,  Lavansville. 
Flick,  H.  H.,  Jr.,  Lavansville. 
Focht,  David,  Clover  Creek. 
Focht,  J.  R.,  Clover  Creek. 
Gerhardt,  Leonidas,   Somerset  Co. 
Glanding,  W.  M.  B.,  1st  Altoona. 
Gruver,  O.  H.,  Berlin. 
Guiney,  J.  B.,  ist  Altoona. 
Haithcox,  H.  C,  Selinsgrove. 
Heindel,  John,  D.D. 
Hentz,  J.  P..  D.D.,  Berlin. 
Hoskinson,  W.  S.,  D.D. 
Jacobs,  Chas.  F.,  Bakersville. 
Johnston,     E.     S.,     D.D.,     Sinking 

Valley. 
Jones,  Alvah  K.,  Hooversville. 
Kantner,  Wayne  O.,  ist  Altoona. 
Kemmerer,  D.  M.,  Schellsburg. 
Kephart,  William,  2nd  Altoona. 
Ketner,  G.  J.  M.,  Williamsburg. 
Kuhlman,  J.  F.,  St.  Paul.  Garrett. 
Kuhlman,     Luther,     Glade,     New 

Centerville. 
Lane,  Peter  P.,  Berlin. 
Langham,  Joseph. 
Liebegott,  C.  E.,  Martinsburg. 
Lowe,  James   A.,   Schmicksburg. 


SYNOD'S  VOLUNTEERS  FOR  THE  MINISTRY 


Lutz,  S.  M.,  Bedford  Co. 
Manges,  E.  L.,  Somerset  Co. 
Markley,  Raymond,   1st  Altoona. 
Maurer.  Jacob  A.,  Stoyestown. 
Miller.    Shile,    Bakersville. 
Miller,  V.  N.,  St.   Paul,  Addison. 
Minemier,  John  J.,  Center  Line. 
Minnich,  M.  R.,  Schellsburg. 
Moser,  D.  M. 
Ott.  E.  F. 

Parson,  E.  E.,  1st  Altoona. 
Pee.   Ernest  L.,   Mt.    Pleasant. 
Pile.   Graft   M.,   Somerset. 
Pugh.   B.   F.,   Somerset   Co. 
Pugh,  Moses,  Friedens. 
Reighard,  J.  C,  St.  Clairsville. 
Reinewald,  Chas. 
Reynolds.  H.  O.,  South  Fork. 
Rinard,  Herbert,  Mt.  Pleasant. 
Ringer,  C.  J.,  Mt.  Tabor,  Garrett. 
Rhoads,  H.  S.,  Will's,  Friedens. 
Rhodes,   M.,   Williamsburg. 
Rizer,   Peter,   Cumberland. 
Robinson,  Royden,  DuBois. 
Roland,  E.  V.,  Grace,  Mt.  Pleasant. 
Rose,  H.  C,  Friend's  Cove. 
Ross,  M.  J.,  Friedens. 
Rover,  G.  A.,  Addison. 
Rupley,  John  B. 
Sahm,  M.  O.  T..  Blairsville. 
Schafer,  G.  F.,  D.D.,  Somerset  Co. 
Schultz,  F.  S..  1st  Altoona. 


Settlemeyer,  W.  H.,  Wilmore. 
Sbaffer,  D.  S.,  Jennerstown. 
Shaulis,   Samuel  A.,  Bakersville. 
Shultz,  D.  H,  Marklesburg. 
Simonton,  Chester,  1st  Altoona. 
Snyder,  Edgar  E.,  Mt.  Pleasant. 
Snyder,  Luther,  Glade. 
Spangler,  Wm.  M.,  Friedens. 
Stahl,  W.  R.,  Pine  Hill. 
Straw,  J.  H.,  New  Millport. 
Streamer,  C.  L.,  Williamsburg. 
Streamer,  C.  R.,  Martinsburg. 
Streamer,  W.  A.  H.,  Philipsburg. 
Stouffer,  Samuel,  Hollidaysburg. 
Stufft,   David,   Scalp  Level. 
Swank,  N.   D.,   1st  Johnstown. 
Taylor,  S.  J.,  D.D.,  Newburg. 
Tate,  M.  L. 
Tedrow,  Wm,  Glade. 
Tilp,  C.  H.,  Meyersdale. 
Tomlinson,  D.  S.  A.,  St.  Clairsville. 
Tomlinson,  J.   W.,   St.   Clairsville. 
Tressler,  V.  G.  A.,  Addison. 
Weaver,  Francis  Heyer,  Newry. 
Weidensall,  Robert,  Hollidaysburg. 
Weidley,  John,   1st  Altoona. 
Weimer,  D.  S.,  Bedford  Co. 
Welfley,  Jno.,   Salisbury. 
Wicker,  Samuel  E.,   1st  Altoona. 
Williams,  J.  T.,   Sinking  Valley. 
Wynn,     Wm.     H.,     D.D.,     Ph.D., 
Blairsville. 


STUDENTS 
The  following  are  students  for  the  ministry  at  the  present  time : 


Baer,  Dalas  C,  Greenville. 
Crossland,   Frederick,   DuBois. 
Endress,   Jos.    Earl,    Huntingdon. 
Fisher,  H.  Earl,  Clearfield. 
Ginter,  C.  P.,  Altoona. 
Hoffman,   F.   W.,   Altoona. 
Lecrone,  Ellis  K..  Davidsville. 
Lecrone,  Milo  A.,  Davidsville. 
Lind,  Ralph  U.,  ist  Altoona. 
Lotz,  James  S.,  St.  Paul,  Altoona. 


Lutton,  A.  M.,  Altoona. 
Miller,  Mahlon  M.,  Philipsburg. 
Miller,  R.  S.,  ist  Johnstown. 
Naugle,   Clarence   E.,    St.   Thomas, 

Davidsville. 
Naugle,  Vernon  D.,  Hooversville. 
Putnam,    D.   F.,   Bakersville. 
Ricker,  Chas.  C,  Huntingdon. 
Rote,  John  S.,  Newry. 
Samuel,  W.   Raymond,   Bedford. 

785 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Shaulis,  Samuel  S.,  Somerset.  Weaver,  John  J.,  Hollidaysburg. 

Shobert,  Vance,  DuBois.  Weidley,  Paul  A.,  1st  Altoona. 

Simonton,  Chester,  Altoona. 

BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 

The  following  ministers  who  have  furnished  brief  sketches,  or 
been  written  up  by  others,  do  not  complete  the  list.  They  are, 
however,  representative  of  the  character  of  the  men  who  have 
gone  forth  from  the  territory  of  "Old  Alleghany,"  and  have  been 
doing  their  share  of  the  work  of  the  great  Lutheran  Church,  in 
various  parts  of  the  globe.  They  have  been  a  faithful  band. 
May  He  who  has  called  them  make  them  perfect  to  do  His  will, 
working  in  and  through  them  that  which  is  well  pleasing  in  His 
sight. 

G.  W.  W.  Amick,  Middleburg,  N.  Y.,  born  April  16,  1861,  at 
St.  Clairsville,  Bedford  County,  Pa.  My  father,  George  B. 
Amick,  merchant.  Confirmed  by  Rev.  J.  H.  Zinn.  Started  to 
college  when  17.  Spent  two  years  at  Selinsgrove.  Entered 
sophomore  class  at  Gettysburg,  graduating  in  class  of  1883, 
with  "third  honor."  In  seminary  one  year.  Then  vice-principal 
at  Missionary  Institute,  Selinsgrove,  two  years,  returning 
to  seminary,  Gettysburg,  to  graduate.  Ordained  by  Alleghany 
Synod,  1887.  Pastorates:  Oakland,  Md. ;  first  resident  pastor 
of  Trinity,  Johnstown,  Pa.,  beginning  work  there  just  six  weeks 
before  the  "flood" ;  Peabody,  Kan. ;  Nevada,  Ohio ;  Ft.  Madison, 
Iowa.  Married  twice.  First  to  Miss  Florence  Phillips,  Oak- 
land, Md.  One  son,  a  machinist  in  Santa  Fe  shops,  but  now  a 
soldier  in  the  world  war.  Second  wife,  Miss  Lydia  Orms, 
Johnstown,  Pa.  One  daughter,  now  in  Carthage  College ;  son 
in  high  school  here.     One  death,  an  infant  son. 

Charles  G.  Aurand,  son  of  Rev.  C.  M.  Aurand  and  wife, 
Anna,  was  born  April  22,  1890,  in  city  of  Trenton,  N.  J.  Lived 
at  Berwick,  Martinsburg  and  Altoona,  Pa.  Was  tutored  in  college 
preparatory  work,  then  went  to  Pennsylvania  College  (Gettys- 
burg), and  graduated  there  in  1910.  Graduated  from  Theo- 
logical Seminary  at  Gettysburg  in  1913.  Licensed  in  Trinity 
Church,  Johnstown,  in  October,  191 2,  and  ordained  at  Berlin, 
786 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Pa.,  1913.  Accepted  call  to  Grace  Church,  York,  Pa.,  and  took 
charge  November  1,  1913.  January  20th,  1914,  was  married  to 
Miss  Maude  W.  Fahs,  daughter  of  Rev.  W.  H.  Fahs,  Tyrone,  Pa. 

Charles  Witmer  Baker,  New  Oxford,  Pa.,  son  of  Philip 
and  Susan  (Miller)  Baker,  born  at  Bakersville,  Somerset  County, 
Pa.,  on  the  28th  day  of  January,  1859.  Confirmed  by  Rev.  D. 
Earhart,  in  1875.  Farming,  and,  incidentally,  clerking,  milling, 
carpentering.  Prepared  at  Missionary  Institute,  Selinsgrove,  Pa. 
Entered  freshman  class  at  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  Pa., 
in  1879,  and  graduated  with  the  class  of  1883.  Theological 
course  at  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary.  Licensed  by  Alle- 
ghany Synod  in  the  Second  Church  of  Altoona,  Pa.,  in  1885,  and 
ordained  by  the  same  Synod  in  Trinity  Lutheran  Church  of 
Somerset,  Pa.,  September  5,  1886.  Served  as  pastor  at  Dallas- 
town,  Pa.,  1886-1888;  Dover,  Pa.,  1888-1890;  Auburn,  Neb., 
1890-1893;  Davenport,  Neb.,  1893-1895;  York  County  Mis- 
sionary, York,  Pa.,  1895-1897;  Youngstown,  Ohio,  1897-1899; 
New  Philadelphia,  Ohio,  '  1899- 1902  ;  Lena,  111.,  1902-1908; 
Princeton,  111.,  1908-1911;  New  Oxford,  Pa.,  since  1911.  The 
major  portion  of  my  ministry  was  given  to  home  mission  work. 
I  have  organized  nine  new  congregations  and  reorganized  four — ■ 
thirteen  in  all.  Built  seven  new  churches  and  remodeled  six. 
Erected  four  new  parsonages  and  purchased  two  and  remodeled 
two.  Added  1,654  members  to  the  Church,  etc.  At  *Davenport  I 
built  a  church  (which  was  doing  service  since  1894)  in  just  thirty 
working  days.  This  is  the  record  of  rapid  church  building  in 
the  Lutheran  Church  in  the  General  Synod,  if  not  in  the  United 
States.  In  August,  1886,  I  was  married  to  Miss  Anna  Kate- 
Wolf,  of  Gettysburg,  Pa.  Seven  children  were  born  to  us, 
four  of  whom  died  in  infancy.  Of  the  three  which  survive,  the 
oldest  is  a  senior  in  the  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary,  and 
the  youngest  is  a  junior  at  Gettysburg  College,  preparing  for 
the  Gospel  Ministry,  while  the  daughter  is  married  and  a  promi- 
nent worker  in  St.  Mark's  Lutheran  Church  of  Hanover,  Pa. 
While  in  the'  seminary  I  was  examined  for  the  foreign  field 
by  Drs.  Robert  and  Charles  Horner,  under  direction  of  Dr.  C.  A. 
Hay,   but   the   examination   was   not    favorable   to   my   going  to 

*The  Davenport  church  was  destroyed  by  fire  a  few  months  ago. 

787 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Africa,  and  so  I  never  offered  myself  to  the  Board,  but  devoted 
myself  to  home  mission  work  with  the  above  results. 

Jesse  YYinecoff  Ball,  Los  Angeles,  Cal.,  was  born  at  Berlin, 
Pa.,  December  29,  1870.  His  parents,  Daniel  M.  and  Sarah  Ball, 
being  members  of  Trinity  Lutheran  Church  of  Berlin.  He  was 
baptized  by  the  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  pastor  of  the  church,  a 
patriarch  of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  and  bears  his  name. 

Upon  the  death  of  his  mother,  at  the  age  of  six  years,  he  was 
sent  with  two  sisters  to  the  Uniontown  Soldiers'  Orphan  School, 
located  near  Uniontown,  Pa.,  in  charge  of  Rev.  A.  H.  Waters, 
a  Lutheran  minister.  Here  he  was  confirmed  and  partly  pre- 
pared for  college.  He  went  to  Gettysburg  in  1888,  graduating  in 
Pennsylvania  College  in  1892,  and  in  the  Theological  Seminary 
in  1895.  Later,  he  pursued  graduate  studies  in  theology,  philos- 
ophy and  sociology,  and  received  the  degree  Ph.D.  from 
Nebraska  State  University  in  1897. 

His  pastorates  have  been:  Los  Angeles,  First  Church,  1895- 
1900;  Children's  Memorial,  Kansas  City,  1900-1903;  Grace 
Church,  Lincoln,  Neb.,  1903-1906;  Los  Angeles,  St.  Mark's, 
1908,  to  the  present.  During  1906  and  1907,  he  was  engaged  in 
graduate  work  in  Nebraska  State  University,  and  later  assisted 
in  the  reorganization  of  Tabitha  Home. 

Mr.  Ball  was  ordained  by  the  California  Synod  at  San  Jose, 
April  19,  1896.  He  was  married,  September  8,  1902,  to  Mary  E. 
Messerly,  of  Los  Angeles.    The  family  consists  of  three  children. 

His  ministry  has  been  entirely  in  the  West,  chiefly  in  Los 
Angeles,  Cal,  where  he  has  served  two  churches  and  assisted  in 
organizing  two  others. 

William  Wallace  Barkley,  Altoona,  Pa.,  son  of  Jacob  T. 
and  Susan  Barkley,  was  born  at  Imler,  Bedford  County,  Pa., 
August  27,  1878.  He  united  with  the  Lutheran  Church  at  the 
above  place  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  and  was  confirmed  by  Rev. 
E.  E.  Parsons,  having  been  baptized  in  infancy  by  the  Rev.  John 
H.  Zinn,  D.D. 

Rev.  Barkley  is  "country-bred,"  and  brought  up  under  the 
discipline  of  the  farm.  After  completing  the  "district"  school 
course  and  some  special  preparation  in  local  select  schools,  he 
788 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


qualified  and  became  a  rural  school  teacher  in  his  native  county, 
serving  three  terms  in  this  capacity. 

Rev.  Barkley  spent  the  spring  of  1898  at  the  Millersville 
Normal  School,  and  entered  the  "Prep"  School  at  Gettysburg 
the  fall  of  '99,  graduating  from  Gettysburg  in  the  A.B.  course 
with  the  class  of  1904,  and  completing  the  seminary  course 
the  spring  of  1907,  with  the  B.D.  degree,  being  one  of  three 
commencement  speakers. 

He  was  licensed  to  preach  by  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  the 
Grace  Church,  Altoona,  the  fall  of  1906,  and  received  ordina- 
tion from  the  Synod  of  Central  Illinois  at  Mount  Carmel,  111., 
in  October,  1907. 

Upon  graduation  from  the  Gettysburg  Seminary,  Rev.  Barkley 
became  the  pastor  of  the  Reen  Memorial  Lutheran  Church,  in 
St.  Louis,  where  he  remained  four  years.  Since  then  he  has 
served  the  First  Lutheran  Church  of  Murphy sboro,  111. ;  the 
First  Lutheran  Church  of  Fairfield,  Iowa,  and  the  Fourth 
Lutheran  Church  of  Altoona,  Pa.,  at  which  last  place  he  is  the 
pastor  at  the  present  time. 

Rev.  Barkley  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Marjorie 
Louise  Miller,  of  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  August  1,  1907.  To  this  union 
have  been  born  three  boys — Donald,  Robert  and  Daniel  Luther. 

It  may  be  added  that  Rev.  Barkley  started  out  to  prepare  him- 
self to  be  a  lawyer,  but  the  Lord  led  him  most  definitely  to  dedi- 
cate his  life  to  the  ministry  of  the  Gospel  during  his  sophomore 
year  in  the  college. 

Peter  G.  Bell.     (For  sketch  see  page  404.) 

Charles  E.  Berkey.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born  near 
Stoyestown,  Pa.,  January  10,  1873,  his  parents  being  Herman  W. 
Berkey  and  Ella  Grady  Berkey. 

Attended  Sunday  school  and  church  services  at  the  Lutheran 
Church  at  Stoyestown  regularly,  and,  after  a  course  of  cate- 
chetical instruction,  was  confirmed  December  6,  1884. 

After  teaching  two  terms  of  school  in  Somerset  County,  he 
entered  Wittenberg  College.  From  this  institution  he  graduated 
in  1897,  and  from  the  Seminary  at  Wittenberg  in  1900. 

Following  is  the  list  of  pastorates  served:    Kellersberg,  Pa., 

789 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES' 


Pittsburgh  Synod,  1900-1903;  Tiro,  Sulphur  Springs,  Ohio,  Wit- 
tenberg Synod,  1903-1906;  Jennerstown,  Pa.,  Alleghany  Synod, 
1907-1912;  Upper  Sandusky,  Ohio,  Wittenberg  Synod,  1913-1917; 
Shanksville,  Pa.,  Alleghany  Synod,  1917 — 

Harvey  Edmund  Berkey,  son  of  Peter  Franklin  Berkey  and 
Charlotte  (Walker)  Berkey,  was  born  near  Jennerstown,  Somer- 
set County,  Pa.,  January  21,  1866.  Confirmed,  Christ  Lutheran 
Church,  Jennerstown,  Pa.,  1884.  Farmer,  cooper,  public  school 
teacher,  traveling  salesman.  Educated,  public  and  local  normal 
schools,  Gettysburg  Academy,  1887,  college,  class  of  1892,  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  class  of  1895.  Post-graduate  student,  Erlangen, 
1908,  Leipsic,  1909.  Licensed,  Meyersdale,  1894.  Ordained, 
Somerset,  1895.  Married,  Cora  Elizabeth  Hartman  (class  of 
1894,  Gettysburg),  of  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  June  18,  1895.  Pastor 
at  Red  Lion,  Pa.,  1895-1901 ;  Sharpsburg  (Pittsburgh),  Pa., 
1901-1903;  Monongahela,  1903-1908:  St.  John's  Baltimore, 
1909-1910;  Apollo,  Pa.,  1910-1914;  Roaring  Spring,  1914  to  date. 
Author,  "Can  the  Church  as  Now  Constituted  Meet  Present 
Demands?"  (Lutheran  Quarterly,  Gettysburg,  April,  1902).  Ab- 
stract of  same  in  Literary  Digest,  New  York,  June  14,  1902; "Pro- 
fessor Hoskins  on  the  Lutheran  Church  and  the  Reformation" 
(Lutheran  Quarterly,  October,  1907)  ;  "The  Quin-Centenary 
Jubilee  of  Leipzic  University"  (Lutheran  Quarterly,  January, 
1910)  ;  "Tschackert  vs.  Richard  on  the  Augsburg  Confession," 
same  on  the  Lord's  Supper,  and  on  the  Formula  of  Concord 
(Lutheran  Observer,  September  30,  October  7,  14,  1910)  ;  various 
articles  in  Homiletic  Reviezv,  New  York,  etc.  Delegate  to  Gen- 
eral Synod,  Des  Moines,  1901,  Atchison,  1913.  President  Pitts- 
burgh Synod,  G.  S.,  1912-1914. 

Matthew  Garner  Boyer,  Chicago,  111.  I  was  born  at  James 
Creek,  Pa.,  now  Marklesburg,  March  to,  1839.  I  am  the  son  of 
Henry  and  Susan  Boyer.  My  mother's  maiden  name  was  Susan 
Garner.  I  was  baptized  by  Rev.  Ellinger,  and  confirmed  by  Rev. 
Cyrus  Rightmyer.  I  attended  public  school  and  select  school  at 
Marklesburg.  I  taught  in  the  public  school  one  term.  I  entered 
Prep,  for  Pennsylvania  College  in  fall  of  1859.  Graduated  from 
college  in  1865  and  entered  the  Theological  Seminary,  Gettys- 
790 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


burg.  I  enlisted  for  the  emergency  in  the  student  company 
which  formed  a  part  of  the  (Company  A)  Twenty-sixth  Regi- 
ment of  the  Pennsylvania  Reserves.  A  statue  marks  the  place 
in  Gettysburg  where  this  company  formed  in  line  to  go  out  to 
meet  the  enemy.  My  name  is  inscribed  on  the  monument  erected 
by  the  State  of  Pennsylvania  in  honor  to  all  who  took  part  in 
Battle  of  Gettysburg.     When  I  came  to  the  age  when  I  should 


REV.    M.   G.   BOYER,  D.D. 


take  my  place  in  the  Church,  instead  of  inviting  me  to  come  to 
the  catechism  class  to  learn  what  to  believe  and  to  do,  they  invited 
me  to  come  to  the  mourners'  bench,  to  mourn,  wrestle  and  pray, 
and  pray  more  earnestly,  and  to  believe,  without  anything  to  be- 
lieve except  that  God  would  give  me  some  tangible  evidence  that 
my  sins  were  pardoned.  Many  of  our  ministers  had  no  use 
for  the  catechism,  but  used  the  mourners'  bench  system.     This 

791 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


confused  me  so  that  I  did  not  know  what  to  do  when  I  entered 
the  ministry.  I  took  good  care  that  others  should  not  get  into 
that  condition,  and  if  they  were  in,  to  get  them  out.  I  had  lots 
of  scraps  in  Conferences  on  this  subject.  The  rupture  in  the 
General  Synod  came  the  year  I  entered  the  ministry.  I  felt 
sure  that  the  fact  that  many  of  our  ministers  and  churches  were 
Lutheran  only  in  name,  went  far  to  cause  this  division.  I  have 
gone  upon  the  principle  that  to  Lutheranize  will  heal  the  divisions. 

As  a  student,  I  supplied  Marklesburg,  Huntingdon  and  Lick 
Ridges  for  about  six  weeks.  I  was  licensed  by  the  Alleghany 
Synod  at  Martinsburg,  September  12,  1866.  I  at  once  took 
charge  of  Marklesburg,  Cassville  and  Newburg.  I  served  this 
charge  one  year  and  six  months.  At  the  General  Synod,  at 
Harrisburg,  Rev.  Morris  Officer,  Secretary  of  Board  of  Home 
Missions  of  General  Synod,  asked  me  to  go  to  Atchison,  Kan. 
I  consented  to  go,  and  arrived  in  Atchison  June  30,  1868.  I 
organized  with  twenty-three  members,  and  increased  that  num- 
ber considerably  during  the  year.  Towards  the  close  of  the 
year  Secretary  Officer  informed  me  that  on  account  of  want  of 
money,  either  the  mission  at  Lawrence  or  Atchison  would  have 
to  be  suspended.  Owing  to  a  slump  in  business  in  Atchison,  the 
mission  lost  almost  one-third  of  its  members.  This  put  a  damper 
upon  the  work.  The  Board  decided  to  suspend  the  work,  and 
commended  the  missionary  for  his  faithfulness.  It  has  gone  into 
history  that  I  did  not  like  it  in  Atchison,  that  I  resigned  and 
left  them  in  bad  shape.  I  at  once  took  charge  of  the  church  at 
Monrovia,  organized  a  church  at  Effingham,  with  thirty-some 
members,  and  preached  some  for  a  Swedish  settlement  northwest 
of  Atchison.  I  helped  organize  the  Kansas  Synod.  I  was  or- 
dained at  its  first  meeting,  and  was  elected  its  second  president. 
I  was  in  Kansas  about  two  and  a  half  years. 

With  a  salary  that  would  not  keep  soul  and  body  together,  and 
a  wife  in  very  poor  health,  I  accepted  a  call  from  Newry,  Pa. 
I  served  the  Newry  charge  four  and  a  half  years.  The  Blue 
Knob  was  a  part  of  the  charge — it  made  it  very  difficult  to  serve. 
The  paying  off  of  an  old  debt  and  rebuilding  the  church  at 
Newry  took  place  during  my  pastorate.  The  people  treated 
us  royally.  In  the  meantime  the  church  at  Marklesburg  decided 
to  support  a  pastor  themselves.     They  sent  a  call  to  their  only 


792 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


son  to  become  their  pastor  again.  I  accepted  the  call,  and  com- 
menced in  the  spring  of  1875.  To  appreciate  what  was  done  in 
this  long  pastorate  of  over  twenty  years,  you  must  take  into 
consideration  the  conditions  of  the  times.  Farm  land  came  down 
about  one-half  in  value — farming  was  a  poor  business — people 
flocked  to  manufacturing  centers.  It  was  a  very  difficult  matter 
to  keep  up  the  country  or  village  church.  If  you  look  at  the 
shrinkage  in  the  membership  at  Williamsburg,  Clover  Creek, 
Sinking  Valley,  Water  Street,  Cassville,  etc.,  and  compare  them 
with  Marklesburg,  taking  in  Grafton  and  Saxton,  I  think  you 
will  appreciate  the  growth  of  Lutheranism  in  Woodcock  Valley. 
A  church  was  organized  and  a  church  erected  at  Grafton  and 
Saxton,  and  the  old  church  at  Marklesburg  was  remodeled  and 
an  addition  added. 

The  time  came  when  a  call  from  West  Sandlake,  N.  Y.,  "come 
over  and  help  us,"  reached  me.  There  was  a  peculiar  work  to 
do  there,  and  I  seemed  to  be  the  only  available  man  who  could 
do  the  work.  I  took  charge  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church  of 
West  Sandlake,  N.  Y.,  January,  1896.  A  large  field  of  usefulness 
was  opened  in  West  Sandlake,  the  Troy  Ministerial  Union,  Con- 
ference and  Synod  (Hartwick).  I  was  a  Lutheran  of  a  different 
type.  The  leaven  worked  admirably,  and  in  four  and  a  half 
years  there  was  quite  a  change.  There  was  no  place  where  my 
work  was  more  highly  appreciated  than  in  West  Sandlake.  The 
breaking  down  of  my  health  seemed  a  great  misfortune,  but  it 
led  me  to  more  important  work.  I  resigned  in  1901  and  moved 
to  New  Haven,  Conn.,  for  recuperation.  After  eight  months,  and 
with  the  assistance  of  my  son,  C.  H.  Boyer,  commenced  the  or- 
ganization of  a  new  church.  The  German  and  Swedish  Lutheran 
pastors  said  there  is  no  need  of  an  English  Lutheran  Church ; 
neither  is  there  material  for  one — only  one  General  Synod 
Lutheran  in  the  city.  I  did  not  go  very  far  until  I  found  I  was 
not  able  to  do  the  work  necessary.  I,  through  the  Board  of 
Home  Missions,  secured  the  help  of  J.  L.  Sieber,  a  student  at  the 
seminary,  Gettysburg,  during  vacation.  We  organized  the  First 
English  Lutheran  Church  of  New  Haven,  Conn.,  with  sixty- 
three  charter  members.  I  continued  as  pastor  until  Brother 
Sieber  graduated.  He  then  took  charge  of  them.  In  all  proba- 
bility, if  I  had  not  gone  to  New  Haven,  there  would  not  now 

793 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


be  an  English  Lutheran  Church  of  the  General  Synod  in  New 
Haven,  or  in  Bridgeport,  Conn.,  or  would  Dr.  Granville  be  Presi- 
dent of  Pennsylvania  College,  as  he  was  secured  as  a  charter 
member  of  this  congregation.  I  moved  to  Philadelphia  in  1903. 
I  supplied  a  church  in  Trenton,  N.  J.,  for  some  time,  assisted  in 
the  mission  work  in  Philadelphia,  supplied  pulpits,  took  an  active 
part  in  the  Ministerial  Union  and  Philadelphia  Conference,  and 
wrote  the  book,  "The  Wonderful  Story  of  Life  and  Death." 

I  came  to  Chicago  in  1912,  with  my  son,  C.  H.  Boyer.  We 
united  with  Unity  Lutheran  Church.  The  church  regularly 
elected  me  as  an  advisory  pastor.  I  have  not  been  able  to  do 
much  public  speaking  since  I  am  here.  I  have  done  what  I 
could  in  pushing  the  work  along.  I  take  an  active  part  in  the 
Ministerial  Union  and  the  work  of  the  Synod.  The  Ministerial 
Union  celebrated  the  fiftieth  anniversary  of  my  entrance  into  the 
ministry.  At  death  I  expect  to  have  my  body  taken  back  to  the 
Alleghany  Synod,  to  be  buried  in  the  Lutheran  Cemetery,  at 
Marklesburg. 

Chicago,  Illv  July,  1917. 

By  the  Editor. — Rev.  Matthew  G.  Boyer  received  the  degree  of  D.D. 
from  Gettysburg  College  in  1894,  the  year  that  he  was  elected  a  member 
of  its  Board  of  Trustees.  He  served  until  1912.  Upon  his  resignation, 
his  son,  C.  H.  Boyer,  a  successful  insurance  man,  donated  the  sum  of 
$5,000  to  the  College  as  an  M.  G.  Boyer  Endowment,  the  interest  of  which 
is  to  be  given  annually  to  needy  students. 

In  the  same  year  of  1894,  Dr-  Boyer  became  a  director  of  the  seminary 
at  Gettysburg,  and  served  as  vice-president  and  president  of  its  Board. 

In  addition  to  the  work  "The  Wonderful  Story  of  Life  and  Death,"  he 
is  author  of  a  popular  tract,  "The  Relation  of  Children  to  the  Church." 

John  Brubaker,  D.D.,  Berlin,  Pa.  Born  November  5,  1848, 
at  Berlin,  Somerset  County,  Pa.  Parents,  Alexander  and 
Drusilla  (Heffley).  Confirmed  at  fifteen,  by  Rev.  Jesse  Wine- 
cofr".  Principal  of  Berlin  schools  before  going  to  college.  Was 
graduated  from  Gettysburg  College  in  class  of  1872.  Received 
first  honor  and  valedictory.  Awarded  freshman  prize  for  best 
general  scholarship,  and  the  Graeff  prize,  in  senior  year,  for  best 
essay  on  Burns'  "Cotter's  Saturday  Night."  Was  graduated 
from  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary  in  1875.  Ordained  the. 
same  year.  Married,  August  1,  1877,  to  Miss  Mary  L.  Gilbert, 
794 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Gettysburg.  Wife  died  April  28,  1894.  Served  as  pastor  at 
Everett,  Pa. ;  Nittany,  Pa. ;  Wrightsville,  Pa. ;  Schellsburg,  Pa. ; 
York  Springs,  Pa. ;  East  Schodack,  N.  Y. ;  Avis,  Pa. ;  Piedmont, 
W.  Va.  Professor  of  English  literature  in  Carthage  College, 
1876-1883,  and  took  turn  in  preaching  in  college  church.  Con- 
tributed a  number  of  articles  to  Lutheran  Quarterly  and  to  other 
publications.  Delivered  alumni  address  before  Theological 
Seminary  Association,  Gettysburg,  1898.  Received  the  D.D. 
degree  from  Susquehanna  University,  1904.  -  Married  to  Miss 
Jennie  E.  Moore,  New  Lexington,  Pa.,  August  12,  1914. 

J.  W.  Burket,  son  of  Peter  Burket,  was  born  in  Sinking 
Valley,  October  19,  1823.  He  entered  Gettysburg  College,  1840. 
In  1846,  he  went  to  Springfield,  Ohio.  He  became  a  member  of 
the  first  class  organized  at  that  institution.  The  class  had  only 
three  members.  He  was  the  first  one  to  pass  away  of  that  trio. 
He  was  at  that  time  under  the  care  of  Rev.  Dr.  Keller.  He  was 
licensed  to  preach  in  1846.  The  next  year  he  was  appointed 
missionary  to  Huntingdon,  Pa.  He  organized  a  church  at  Hunt- 
ingdon, and  at  Paradise  Furnace,  and  at  Cassville,  Pa.  He 
preached  at  six  different  places.  He  was  the  pioneer  of  the 
church  in  Lee  County,  111.  He  worked  in  Dixon,  and  he  or- 
ganized a  congregation  on  the  prairie  ten  miles  east  of  Dixon. 
He  was  appointed  missionary,  1849,  and  continued  his  labors 
in  north  Illinois.  He  laid  the  corner-stone  of  the  first  Lutheran 
church  in  Ogle  County,  at  Oregon.  In  1850,  he  accepted  a  call 
to  churches  in  Westmoreland  County,  Pa.  He  laid  the  corner- 
stone of  a  new  church  at  Manorville,  in  Armstrong  County.  He 
also  preached  in  Apollo.  In  1857,  he  took  charge  of  a  church  in 
Kishacoquillas  Valley;  remained  until  1861.  He  preached  in 
Glasgow  and  Cambria  County,  Pa.  When  his  voice  failed  him, 
he  then  became  assistant  postmaster  of  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives, at  Harrisburg.  In  1863,  he  entered  the  Commissary 
Department,  at  Washington,  D.  C.  At  the  time  of  his  death, 
February  28,  1883,  he  was  the  superintendent  of  the  paper  room 
of  the  Treasury  Department,  of  Washington,  D.  C.  He  was 
also  at  one  time  superintendent  of  the  Government  paper  mills 
at  Dalton,  Mass.  During  all  these  years  not  a  single  sheet  of 
the  many  millions  of  the  valuable  paper  in  his  charge  was  lost. 

795 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


He  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  Chritzman,  of  Gettysburg,  Pa. 
They  had  nine  children.  At  the  time  of  his  death  all  were  still 
alive.  He  was  a  faithful  and  true  member  of  St.  Paul's  English 
Lutheran  Church,  Washington,  D.  C,  and  often  preached  for 
them  when  able. — Written  by  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Alice  Burket 
Garvin. 
Williamsburg,  Pa.,  May  31,  1917. 

John  George  Butler,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  was  born  in  Cumberland, 
Md.,  January  28,  1826.  His  father,  Jonathan  Butler,  was  an 
elder  and  Sunday  School  superintendent.  His  grandfather,  Rev. 
John  George  Butler,  was  a  pioneer  preacher  in  Pennsylvania, 
around  Carlisle,  in  southwestern  Virginia  and  in  western  Mary- 
land. Young  Butler  managed  a  store  for  his  father  in  Berlin, 
Pa.  He  attended  the  public  schools  and  the  Alleghany  County 
Academy,  and  was  prepared  for  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettys- 
burg, under  the  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff,  who  had  received  him  into 
the  church,  entering  college  in  1846,  and  the  seminary  a  year  or 
two  later. 

In  1849,  ne  went  to  Washington,  D.  C,  as  pastor  of  St.  Paul's 
Church,  continuing  as  such  until  1873.  In  the  meantime,  the 
Church  of  the  Reformation  had  been  founded  by  him  and  his 
people.  In  1873,  with  a  colony  of  fifty-five,  he  withdrew  and 
founded  the  Luther  Place  Memorial  Church  and  served  it  as 
pastor  until  his  death  in  1909,  rounding  out  sixty  years  of  active 
ministerial  service  in  Washington. 

At  the  outbreak  of  the  Civil  War  he  was  elected  chaplain  to 
the  Fifth  Pennsylvania  Volunteers,  three  months  men,  and  at  the 
conclusion  of  this  service,  he  was  appointed  hospital  chaplain  by 
President  Lincoln,  which  position  he  filled  until  the  close  of  the 
war. 

From  1869  to  1873,  he  was  chaplain  of  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives, and  from  1886  to  1893,  chaplain  of  the  Senate.  For 
twenty  years  he  was  professor  of  Church  History  and  Homiletics 
in  the  Theological  Department  of  Howard  University  (Colored), 
Washington,  and  for  sixteen  years,  to  the  time  of  his  death,  he 
edited  the  Lutheran  Evangelist*  published  in  Springfield,  Ohio, 
and  for  a  longer  term  of  years  he  was  the  regular  correspondent 
of  the  Lutheran  Observer.  His  last  work  on  the  Evangelist  was 
796 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


an  obituary  of  Alexander  Gebhart,  of  Dayton,  Ohio,  the  owner 
of  this  paper,  a  stanch  supporter  of  its  policies,  and  a  scion  of 
the  noted  Somerset  County  family. 

Under  his  ministry  in  the  Memorial  Church  he  established 
the  Church  of  the  Fatherland  (now  Zion's  German-English)  ; 
Redeemer,  a  colored  mission,  and  the  Keller  Memorial,  the  Sun- 
day School  of  the  congregation  being  organized  by  his  son,  Rev. 
Charles  H.  Butler  and  served  by  him  for  sixteen  years. 

He  received  the  degree  D.D.,  from  the  Pennsylvania  College, 
and  that  of  LL.D.,  from  Newberry  College,  S.  C. 

Dr.  Butler  was  survived  by  his  wife  (since  deceased,  May, 
191 7),  and  by  four  children,  Miss  Ella  C,  Dr.  W.  K.,  Rev.  C.  H. 
and  Mrs.  H.  A.  Polkinhom,  all  of  whom  live  in  Washington. — 
Sketch  by  Rev.  C.  H.  B. 

Benjamin  Brubaker  Collins  was  born  in  Berlin,  Pa.,  No- 
vember 28,  1847,  son  of  Mark  A.  and  Ellen  Brubaker  Collins, 
and  died  in  Meyersdale,  November  2,  1912.  He  was  a  student 
of  his  noted  pastor  at  Berlin,  Rev.  Jesse  Winecoff.  He  gradu- 
ated from  the  college  and  the  seminary,  at  Gettysburg,  the  latter 
in  1875.  He  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Emma  J.  Fisher, 
of  Berlin,  and  together  went  as  missionaries  to  Liberia,  Africa. 
As  the  climate  disagreed  with  Mrs.  Collins,  they  started  to  return, 
Mrs.  Collins  dying,  and  being  buried  at  sea.  After  a  year's  work 
for  the  Mission  Board,  he  served  the  Chalfont  charge,  in  Penn- 
sylvania, until  1882;  then  at  New  Germany,  N.  J.,  1882-1890. 
From  here  he  was  called  to  serve  as  traveling  missionary  secre- 
tary of  Alleghany  Synod.  For  lack  of  adequate  support,  the 
Synod  discontinued  the  office  after  two  years.  He  became  pastor 
at  Meyersdale,  April  1,  1892,  where  a  fine  church  is  his  material 
monument,  and  a  warm  spot  in  many  hearts  a  deserving  tribute 
of  praise,  serving  until  failing  health  prevented  further  labor,  in 
1906.  He  was  married  to  Miss  Ella  A.  Delp,  December  20,  1878, 
who,  with  six  children,  survived.  He  was  a  most  lovable  and 
kindly  man. 

Silas  Davis  Daugherty,  D.D.,  Philadelphia,  Pa.,  son  of  Jason 
D.  and  Angeline  Daugherty,  born  near  Smicksburg,  Indiana 
County,  Pa.,  April  17,  1857,  was  baptized  in  Salem  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church,  Smicksburg,  of  which  his  parents  were  mem- 

797 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


bers.  He  was  converted  under  the  preaching  of  Rev.  P.  S. 
Hooper,  and  received  into  church  membership  by  confirmation  at 
fifteen  years  of  age.  He  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  the 
neighborhood.  His  father  gave  up  the  old  Daugherty  homestead, 
west  of  Smicksburg,  when  he  was  eleven,  and  bought  129  acres, 
all  woodland  except  five  acres,  and  without  buildings,  to  the  east 
of  Smicksburg.  Here,  with  his  father  and  brothers,  he  toiled 
in  clearing  and  farming  until,  in  his  eighteenth  year,  he  strained 
his  heart  by  over-exertion,  and  was  given  up  to  die.  But  God 
had  something  more  for  him  to  do.  Recovering  to  some  degree, 
his  father  managed  to  help  him  to  a  few  weeks'  education  at  the 
Blose  Normal,  a  country  school  for  training  teachers.  He  taught 
for  five  terms  in  Indiana  and  Jefferson  Counties,  attending  school 
during  the  summers  at  Saltsburg  Academy  and  the  Smicksburg 
Summer  School,  doing  his  own  cooking  for  four  of  these  terms. 
For  nearly  two  years,  he  sold  farm  implements  to  pay  expenses 
in  college. 

In  the  fall  of  1884,  he  entered  Pennsylvania  College,  and 
graduated  in  the  class  of  1888,  and  in  theology,  1891. 

Soon  after  his  conversion,  he  ventured  to  speak  to  his  father 
of  the  conviction  that  he  should  enter  the  Gospel  Ministry ;  but 
as  his  father  could  not  help  him  to  secure  the  needed  education, 
the  matter  was  dropped  for  a  time.  Upon  finishing  the  first  year 
in  the  Theological  Seminary,  while  at  home  for  a  short  vacation, 
his  mother  said  to  him,  "Silas,  I  wish  to  tell  you,  as  you  are  now 
beginning  to  preach,  that  when  I  was  called  upon  to  give  up  my 
first  born,  I  made  a  covenant  with  the  Lord  that  if  He  would 
give  me  another  son,  that  I  would  dedicate  him  to  the  work  of 
the  Gospel  Ministry ;  and  when  you  were  born,  I  laid  you  upon 
the  altar  for  that  work,  and  I  always  believed  that  you  would 
become  a  minister,  although  I  have  never  said  anything  to  you 
about  it ;  nor  to  father,  either,  until  you  went  away  to  college ; 
then  I  told  him."  This  testimony  was  a  great  comfort,  for  he 
had  wrestled  with  the  problem  for  several  years. 

Before  leaving  the  seminary,  he  had  received  five  calls  and 
requests  from  different  charges  to  become  their  pastor.  But  as 
he  had  been  disappointed  in  his  desires  to  go  to  India,  for  which 
he  had  volunteered,  he  decided  to  do  Home  Mission  work,  and 
accepted  a  call  to  the  Sharpsburg  Mission,  and  began  his  work 
798 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


there  June  21,  1891.  This  mission  became  self-sustaining  at  the 
end  of  the  first  year  of  his  pastorate,  and  it  became  necessary  to 
enlarge  the  church  building  twice  during  the  first  two  and  a  half 
years.  November  5,  of  his  first  year,  he  was  married  to  Bertha 
A.  Reider,  of  Williamsport,  who  became  a  great  help  to  him  in 
his  ministry.  He  was  with  the  Sharpsburg  people  five  years. 
During  that  time,  he  organized  the  church  at  Aspinwall,  and 
through  one  of  his  members,  organized  the  Sunday  School  at 
West  Etna,  from  which  grew  the  present  church  there. 

While  at  Sharpsburg,  he  was  a  member  of  the  Synodical  Mis- 
sion Board  of  the  Pittsburgh  Synod,  and  president  of  it  for  a 
time,  as  well  as  acting  secretary  of  missions. 

Following  a  serious  nervous  break,  as  a  result  of  overwork, 
and  then  typhoid  fever,  he  was  called  to  Grace  Church,  Altoona, 
as  its  first  pastor,  where  he  served  one  year  and  eight  months. 
During  that  time,  the  accessions  were  increased  by  more  than 
100,  a  property  for  church  purposes  bought  costing  $27,500,  and 
plans  made  to  build  at  a  cost  of  approximately  $25,000.  Resign- 
ing here,  he  was  called  to  Norwood,  where  he  served  for  one 
year  and  nine  months,  and  at  the  end  of  the  first  year  there,  this 
mission  became  self-sustaining. 

He  accepted  a  call  to  become  superintendent  of  the  mission 
work  of  the  Philadelphia  Conference  of  East  Pennsylvania 
Synod.  In  this  work  he  organized  many  churches  in  and  about 
Philadelphia.  At  the  call  of  the  Woman's  Home  and  Foreign 
Missionary  Executive  Committee,  he  presented  the  interests  of 
work  in  South  America  to  the  General  Synod,  at  Sunbury,  Pa., 
in  1907,  and  was  sent  by  the  Woman's  Board  to  South  America 
to  study  the  needs  of  that  part  of  the  world.  He  set  sail  No- 
vember 7,  1909,  for  Buenos  Aires,  Argentina,  via  England,  and 
arrived  December  13.  Although  given  but  a  six  months'  leave 
of  absence,  the  work  took  such  shape  that  he  was  asked  to  remain 
on  the  field  until  help  could  be  sent.  His  family  came  on,  and  in 
all,  he  remained  nearly  four  years,  organizing,  temporarily,  a 
church  of  nearly  100  members  among  the  Scandinavians  in 
Buenos  Aires,  a  Sunday  School,  day  school  and  church,  in  the 
English  language,  and  a  Sunday  School,  in  Spanish,  at  Caseros,  a 
suburb,  and  a  Sunday  School  in  Belgrano,  Buenos  Aires,  of  more 
than    100,    which    was    conducted    in    the    Spanish    and    English 

799 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


languages,  besides  conducting  services  in  English  in  the  city  of 
Buenos  Aires,  in  the  center,  as  well  as  in  Belgrano. 

Returning  home  he  was  reappointed  superintendent  of  the 
Philadelphia  Conference,  and  a  little  later,  was  elected  superin- 
tendent* of  missions  of  the  Synod  of  East  Pennsylvania,  which 
position  he  still  holds,  and  in  which  he  has  organized  many  mis- 
sions which  have  become,  and  are  becoming  centers  of  great 
Christian  activity.  He  was  instrumental  in  organizing  the  Pan 
Lutheran  Society  for  Mission  Work  in  Latin-America,  of  which 
he  is  the  corresponding  secretary.  He  received  the  degree  of 
Doctor  of  Divinity,  1915,  from  Pennsylvania  College.  To  him 
and  his  wife  were  born  Paul  R.,  Ruth  and  Miriam  Angeline.  The 
daughters  were  called  home,  Ruth  in  babyhood,  and  Miriam  in 
her  sixteenth  year. 

E.  F.  Dickey,  was  raised  on  a  farm  near  Berlin,  Somerset 
County,  Pa.  Educated  in  the  public  schools.  Baptized  in  the 
Lutheran  church  in  infancy.  Catechised  and  confirmed  in  the 
Pinehill  Lutheran  Church,  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years,  by  Rev. 
Jesse  Winecoff,  pastor.  In  later  years  he  was  convinced  that  he 
had  a  call  to  preach  the  gospel,  and  having  no  means  at  hand  to 
qualify  himself  for  the  Lutheran  ministry  at  that  particular  time, 
he  accepted  a  license  from  the  Evangelical  Association,  in  which 
capacity  he  served  as  pastor  in  several  charges  from  1879  to  1893, 
at  the  same  time  undergoing  a  two  years'  classical  training  and 
four  years'  training  in  theology  under  the  instruction  of  Rev.  Dr. 
W.  Haupt  and  Rev.  Dr.  M.  Shannon,  after  which  he  was  or- 
dained. In  all  these  years  he  had  a  great  desire  to  return  to  his 
mother  Church,  and  when  the  opportunity  presented  itself  he 
was  granted  his  credentials  by  the  Pittsburgh  Conference  of  the 
now  United  Evangelical  Church,  having  been  previously  ex- 
amined by  a  board  of  examiners  composed  of  Rev.  M.  L.  Young, 
D.D.,  and  Rev.  Byers,  D.D.,  and  being  recommended  by  that 
board  to  the  examining  board  of  the  Wittenberg  Synod,  com- 
posed of  Rev.  Dr.  S.  Brackenridge,  Rev.  Dr.  Singly  and  Rev. 
Dr.  D.  H.  Bauslin.  Upon  the  recommendation  of  this  committee 
was  received  into  the  Wittenberg  Synod  by  a  unanimous  vote. 
He  was  then  in  charge  of  the  Montpelier  pastorate,  which  he 
served  successfully  for  one  year,  when  dumb  ague  compelled  him 
800 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


to  seek  another  climate.  He  received  a  call  to  St.  Paris,  Ohio, 
removing  from  Montpelier  to  St.  Paris,  having  served  this 
charge  almost  a  year,  when  he  was  called  to  the  First  Lutheran 
Church,  New  Kensington,  Pa.,  serving  this  church  six  years 
and  nine  months,  when  he  was  called  to  North  Washington 
charge,  which  he  served  one  year,  then  was  called  to  Bethel  and 
Rockville  charge ;  then  continued  at  Bethel  and  Hyde  Park  five 
years.  Later  was  appointed  by  the  Home  Mission  Board  to 
Messiah  Lutheran  Church,  Pittsburgh.  Pa.,  as  supply  pastor, 
serving  same  three  years.  Built  a  brick  church,  dedicated  it. 
Then  was  called  to  Harmony  Grove  pastorate  in  Indiana  County, 
Pa.,  where  he  is  now  pastor. 

Samuel  Domer,  D.D.,  was  born  January  22,  1826,  at  Sabbath 
Rest,  Blair  County,  Pa.,  where  his  childhood  and  early  youth 
were  passed.  His  early  education  was  received  in  the  common 
country  schools.  When  only  sixteen  years  of  age  he  began  to 
teach  in  the  pine  forests  of  Cambria  County,  Pa.,  achieving  great 
success  among  the  lumbermen  of  that  district.  His  pathway  on- 
ward was  often  rough  and  steep,  but  he  never  swerved  from  his 
early  ambition  to  enter  the  ministry. 

In  the  spring  of  1849,  he  entered  Wittenberg  College,  Spring- 
field, Ohio,  graduating  in  1853.  He  next  entered  the  Theological 
Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  and  graduated  in  1855.  In  May, 
1855,  he  began  his  first  pastorate,  at  Trinity  Lutheran  Church, 
Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  before  he  was  regularly  licensed,  which  was 
done  in  the  following  month  by  the  old  Pittsburgh  Synod  at  Can- 
ton, Ohio.  He  was  ordained  to  the  ministry  by  the  East  Penn- 
sylvania Synod,  in  1856. 

He  resided  at  Selinsgrove  fourteen  years,  eleven  years  as  pas- 
tor of  the  church.  Here  he  was  married  on  January  28,  1858, 
to  Miss  Lydia  L.  Davis,  who  still  survives  him.  They  had  seven 
children,  two  daughters  and  five  sons,  six  of  whom  are  still  living, 
one  son  having  died  in  childhood. 

During  Doctor  Domer's  pastorate  at  Selinsgrove,  he  was 
associated  with  Dr.  Benjamin  Kurtz  and  Dr.  Henry  Ziegler  and 
others  in  founding  Missionary  Institute,  now  Susquehanna  Uni- 
versity. Doctor  Domer  was  also  one  of  the  founders  of  the  Sus- 
quehanna Female  College,  at  Selinsgrove,  and  at  the  close  of  the 

801 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


tenth  year  of  his  pastorate,  he  took  charge  of  this  institution, 
remaining  as  principal  four  years.  Success  crowned  his  work 
here,  but  his  tastes  running  along  the  line  of  ministerial  work, 
he  resigned  his  charge  of  the  school  and  accepted  a  call  to  Saint 
Matthew's  English  Lutheran  Church,  Reading,  Pa.,  in  June, 
1869. 

He  remained  three  years  in  Reading,  but  his  health  failing,  he 
was  compelled  to  resign  and  rest  awhile.  Six  months  later  he 
accepted    a   call    to    Trinity    Lutheran    Church,    Shamokin,    Pa., 


REV.    SAMUEL   DOMER,    D.D. 


where  he  removed  in  October,  1872.  He  labored  here  until  No- 
vember, 1874,  when  he  accepted  a  call  to  Saint  Paul's  English 
•Lutheran  Church,  Washington,  D.  C.  Here  he  remained  all  the 
rest  of  his  life,  his  ministry  of  twenty-six  years  being  the  longest 
in  the  history  of  St.  Paul's  Church.  For  over  a  quarter  of  a 
century  Doctor  Domer  was  loved  and  honored  as  one  of  the  out- 
standing figures  in  the  religious  and  civic  life  of  the  National 
Capital,  raising  his  congregation  from  uncertainty  to  a  posi- 
tion of  great  prosperity  and  success. 
802 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


In  June,  1876,  he  received  the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity 
from  Roanoke  College,  Va.  In  1881,  he  was  elected  president 
of  the  Maryland  Synod.  He  was  a  frequent  delegate  to  the  Gen- 
eral Synod,  and  served  on  various  boards  and  committees  of  that 
body.  As  a  writer,  Doctor  Domer  gave  to  the  public  a  number 
of  sermons,  addresses  and  lectures,  and  was  widely  known  as  a 
pulpit  orator. 

On  account  of  advancing  years  and  failing  health.  Doctor 
Domer  resigned  his  pastorate  on  May  31,  1900,  and  a  year  later, 
almost  to  the  day,  on  Sunday  morning,  June  2,  1901,  his  beautiful 
life  came  to  a  sudden,  but  peaceful  close.  He  lies  buried  among 
the  roses  in  Glenwood  Cemetery,  Washington,  D.  C,  symbolizing 
his  own  favorite  text,  "Having  promise  of  the  life  that  now  is, 
and  of  that  which  is  to  come."  (Sketch  by  his  son,  H.  T.  Domer, 
Esq.,  Washington,  D.  C.) 

David  Earhart  was  born  in  Indiana  County  in  1818,  of 
German  parentage.  As  his  early  life  antedated  the  free  school 
system,  he  received  his  schooling  largely  through  private  instruc- 
tion, but  was  one  of  the  first  students  at  Wittenberg  College, 
where  he  spent  one  year.  He  was  ordained  by  the  East  Ohio 
Synod  in  1844.  He  served  churches  in  the  vicinity  of  Leech- 
burg,  Pa.  He  was  the  youngest  of  the  eight  pastors  of  Alle- 
ghany Synod  who  in  1845  organized  the  Pittsburgh  Synod. 
From  i860  to  1873  he  was  in  Kansas,  the  second  of  our  pastors 
there  and  first  in  influence  and  importance  in  the  establishment 
of  our  Church  in  this  new  territory.  At  a  conference  in  1866 
he  prevented  the  adoption  of  the  "Definite  Platform"  as  the 
doctrinal  basis  for  the  Kansas  Synod  about  to  be  organized. 
From  1873  to  1876  he  was  pastor  at  Lavansville  and  Bakers- 
ville,  near  Somerset,  Pa.  Being  pastor  of  St.  Michael's  Church, 
in  Armstrong  County,  from  about  1877  to  1885,  he  united  with 
the  Pittsburgh  Synod  of  the  General  Council,  to  which  that 
church  belonged.  He  had  helped  organize  that  Synod.  He  re- 
mained a  member  of  this  body  until  his  death  in  Kansas  City, 
August  14,  1903.  He  was  married  November  16,  1841,  to  Mary 
Wells  Patton,  of  Somerset,  Pa.,  of  distinguished  ancestry.  Her 
father,  John  Patton,  of  Irish  lineage,  a  graduate  of  Dublin  Uni- 
versity, edited  the  first  paper  published  in  Somerset  County.   Her 

80S 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


mother,  Harriet  Wells  Patton,  was  a  daughter  of  John  Wells, 
first  surveyor  of  Somerset  County,  who  was  a  descendant  of 
Colonel  Wells,  of  the  army  of  Oliver  Cromwell. — Sketch  indorsed 
as  correct  by  a  daughter. — Mrs.  Harriet  Earhart  Monroe,  Wash- 
ington, D.  C. 

W.  E.  Fischer,  D.D.,  son  of  John  Henry  and  Elizabeth 
Fischer.  Born  in  Berlin,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  October  6,  1849. 
Confirmed  at  the  age  of  fourteen,  Berlin,  Pa.  Occupation : 
Taught  school  several  years.  Schooling :  Common  school,  Ber- 
lin; preparatory  department,  Gettysburg,  1868;  graduated  Penn- 
sylvania College,  1872;  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary,  1875. 
Ordained  by  Alleghany  Synod,  1875.  Served  Center  Hall  pas- 
torate, Center  County,  Pa.,  from  August,  1875,  to  September, 
1893;  Shamokin  pastorate,  from  September  14,  1893,  to  the  pres- 
ent. Married  J.  Annie  Philson,  of  Berlin,  Pa.,  March,  1877, 
daughter  of  Samuel  Philson.  Secretary  of  General  Synod  for 
four  years.  Correspondent  for  Observer  and  Lutheran  World 
and  Observer  for  twenty  years  or  more.  Member  of  Committee 
on  Ministerial  Acts,  and  Hymnal  of  1899,  and  also  New  Hymnal 
to  be  put  on  the  market  this  October,  19 17.  Member  of  Com- 
mittee on  Sunday  School  Hymnal,  "Augsburg  Songs,"  etc. 

Frank  P.  Fisher,  the  oldest  son  of  James  J.  and  Margaret 
(Glossner)  Fisher,  was  born  on  a  farm  at  Snow  Shoe  Inter- 
section, Center  County,  Pa.,  the  fifteenth  day  of  August,  1880. 
Early  in  the  year  1888,  the  family  moved  to  a  farm  in  Half- 
Moon  Valley,  of  his  native  county,  when  he  became  identified 
with  the  Center  Line  Lutheran  Sunday  School  of  the  Sinking 
Valley  charge.  He  became  a  member  of  this  church  during  the 
pastorate  of  the  late  Rev.  James  A.  Dunlap,  Ph.D.  He  received 
his  early  education  ■  in  the  public  district  schools,  and  select 
schools  at  Port  Matilda  and  Spring  Mills,  Pa.  Taught  in  the 
public  schools  for  two  years.  Entered  the  Gettysburg  Academy 
in  the  fall  of  1903,  and  Pennsylvania  College,  the  following  fall, 
from  which  he  graduated  in  1908.  Entered  the  Theological 
Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  in  fall  of  1908,  completing  the 
course  of  study  in  this  institution  in  the  spring  of  191 1.  He 
taught  select  schools  during  the  vacation  periods  of  his  seminary 
804 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


course.  He  was  licensed  for  one  year  by  the  Alleghany  Synod, 
at  its  annual  convention  held  at  Hollidaysburg,  Pa.,  in  1910,  and 
fully  ordained  by  the  same  Synod,  in  annual  session  at  Everett, 
Pa.,  191 1.  Early  in  the  year  of  191 1,  he  received  a  call  from  the 
Petersburg  pastorate,  Huntingdon  County,  Pa.,  which  was 
accepted.  He  assumed  charge  of  this  work  on  May  19,  191 1,  the 
day  following  his  graduation  from  the  seminary,  and  faithfully 
served  this  pastorate  until  December  1,  1913,  when  he  became 
pastor  of  Temple  Church,  /\ltoona,  Pa.,  where  he  still  labors. 

Cyrus  L.  Fleck,  Riegelsville,  Pa.,  son  of  Gabriel  and  Rebecca 
Fleck,  was  born  January  12,  1855,  in  Sinking  Valley,  Blair 
County,  Pa.  His  earlier  years  were  spent  on  the  home  farm  in 
the  valley  near  the  Brick  Church.  In  this  immediate  locality, 
Revs.  H.  R.,  L.  N.,  and  E.  Lee  Fleck  also  spent  their  young 
years.  Cyrus  was  the  seventh  child  in  a  family  of  twelve  chil- 
dren. He  enjoyed  all  the  advantages  of  the  public  school,  which 
was  located,  with  the  church,  on  the  farm,  and  which  he  attended 
until  "of  age."  Through  the  watchful  care  of  godly  parents,  who 
were  faithful  in  attending  and  supporting  the  church,  he  was 
trained  from  earliest  childhood  to  attend  Sunday  school  and  the 
regular  church  services.  At  the  age  of  sixteen  he  received 
catechetical  instruction,  and  joined  St.  John's  Lutheran  Church 
during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  J.  L.  Kistler.  In  1876  he  enlisted 
in  the  National  Guard  of  Pennsylvania  for  five  years,  joining 
Sheridan  Troop  of  Tyrone,  under  Captain  C.  S.  W.  Jones.  At  the 
expiration  of  this  time  he  re-enlisted,  became  a  non-commissioned 
officer,  and  was  honorably  discharged  in  1884. 

Having  a  desire  for  a  more  extended  education,  he  entered  the 
teaching  profession,  teaching  in  the  public  schools  for  three 
years.  During  these  years  a  growing  desire  to  enter  the  ministry 
prevailed,  and,  while  teaching,  the  evenings  were  often  spent 
studying  Latin  under  the  tutorship  of  Mr.  L.  N.  Fleck,  then  a 
student  at  Selinsgrove.  This  was  a  correspondence  course.  In 
the  spring  and  early  summer  of  1879  some  weeks  were  spent 
with  Rev.  J.  H.  Walterick,  who  lived  in  Tyrone  and  served  the 
Sinking  Valley  and  Bellwood  charge.  "I  was  chore  boy,  and  he 
was  tutor."  In  the  spring  of  1880  he  attended  the  Preparatory 
School  at  Gettysburg,  and  entered  the  Freshman  Class  of  Penn- 

805 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


sylvania  College  in  the  fall,  graduating  in  1884.  Entering  the 
Theological  Seminary  at  Gettysburg  that  same  year,  he  took  the 
complete  course  and  graduated  in  1887.  In  February  of  this 
same  year  he  was  invited  to  preach  at  Riegelsville,  Bucks  County, 
Pa.,  was  at  once  elected  pastor  of  the  Riegelsville  charge,  of 
which  he  took  charge  in  July,  and  which  he  yet  serves.  His 
thirtieth  anniversary  was  celebrated  August  5,  191 7.  He  has 
filled  important  offices  in  the  Synod,  and  was  several  times  dele- 
gate to  the  General  Synod. 

In  October,  1887,  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Annie 
K.  Leas,  of  Gettysburg,  daughter  of  John  B.  and  Mary  Leas. 
Mrs.  Fleck  is  at  present  the  president  of  the  Woman's  Home 
and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  of  East  Pennsylvania  Synod. 
The  children  of  the  family  are:  Carl  W.,  John  G.,  Cyrus  S., 
Harry  W.,  Margaret  A.,  and  George  D.  Harry  and  George  died 
in  childhood.  At  this  date  Carl  has  enlisted  in  the  United  States 
army  and  is  in  the  officers'  training  camp  at  Fort  Oglethorpe,  Ga., 
John  is  preaching  in  Baltimore,  Cyrus  is  a  sophomore  in  Penn- 
sylvania College  at  Gettysburg,  and  Margaret  is  at  home.  Carl 
and  John  are  graduates  of  Pennsylvania  College,  taking  honors. 

E.  Lee  Fleck,  Lincoln,  Neb.,  son  of  Conrad  and  Mary  Fleck, 
was  born  in  Sinking  Valley,  Blair  County.  At  an  early  age  he 
went  west  and  entered  Carthage  College  in  1878,  and  graduated 
with  the  class  of  1884.  He  entered  the  theological  school  at 
Springfield,  Ohio,  and  graduated  in  1887.  He  was  ordained  by 
the  Miami  Synod  in  October  of  the  same  year.  Before  his  gradu- 
ation from  the  seminary  he  had,  at  the  solicitation  of  the  pastors 
and  members  of  the  college  faculty,  begun  the  canvass  for  mem- 
bers to  form  the  Third  Lutheran  congregation  in  Springfield. 
He  organized  the  congregation  in  July  and  built  the  first  building 
for  this  congregation,  and  until  the  fall  of  1888  he  served  it  and 
the  Rockway  Church. 

Failing  health  caused  him  to  retire  from  the  active  ministry 
until  the  fall  of  1889,  when  he  resumed  active  work  at  Sidney, 
Neb.  He  resigned  this  charge  in  the  fall  of  1893  to  accept  a 
call  to  the  Second  Lutheran  Church  at  Dayton,  Ohio,  about  to  be 
organized.  This  congregation  he  served  almost  seven  years  and 
built  the  substantial  pressed  brick  building  in  which  this  congre- 
806 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


gation  now  worships,  and  left  them  with  all  obligations  paid. 

September  i,  1900,  he  began  his  ministry  at  Sterling,  111.,  where 
he  continued  for  nine  years.  Resigning  the  charge,  he  moved  to 
Lincoln,  Neb.,  where  he  has  since  resided,  and  doing  local  supply 
work  as  opportunity  has  been  afforded. 

Henry  Ramey  Fleck,  son  of  Henry  and  Catherine  Ramey 
Fleck,  born  in  Sinking  Valley,  Blair  County,  February  26,  1834. 
Graduated  from  Pennsylvania  College  in  1857.  In  1857  and  1858, 
he  studied  theology  at  the  seminary.  In  September,  1858,  was 
licensed  by  the  Alleghany  Synod,  and  in  1859,  was  ordained  by 
the  East  Pennsylvania  Synod,  at  Harrisburg,  Pa.*  He  entered  a 
mission  field  in  Luzerne  County,  having  nine  preaching  points. 
His  fifty  years  in  the  ministry  were  spent  here  and  at  the  follow- 
ing places:  Lewistown,  Pa.;  New  Kingston  (twice  pastor, 
twenty-five  years  in  all)  ;  Newville,  Pa. ;  Mechanicsburg,  Pa. ; 
St.  Paul's  Stone  Church,  Hawn  pastorate,  Huntingdon  County. 
On  Sunday  morning,  November  15,  1908,  he  died.  On  this  day 
he  was  going  to  resign  as  pastor  of  the  Hawn  pastorate.  Buried 
at  Huntingdon,  Pa.  Five  sons,  one  in  the  ministry  (W.  K. 
Fleck).  We  are  told  that  four  other  pastors  testify  to  having 
been  led  into  the  ministry  through  his  influence. 

Lixdley  Neff  Fleck,  Pine  Grove  Mills,  Pa.,  is  as  truly  a 
a  son  of  Alleghany  Synod  as  early  ancestry,  parentage,  youthful 
religious  training,  ordination  and  subsequent  ministerial  labors 
can  make  him  such.  Three-fourths  of  his  ministerial  life  has 
been  spent  within  the  bounds  of  Alleghany  Synod.  His  great- 
grandparents,  original  settlers  of  Sinking  Valley,  were  associated 
with  the  St.  John's  Lutheran  Church  of  this  locality  from  its 
earliest  history,  in  which  church  his  grandparents  and  his  parents 
were  active  members  during  their  lifetime. 

Rev.  Fleck  is  a  son  of  Gabriel  and  Rebecca  Stoner  Fleck,  and 
was  born  at  the  old  Fleck  homestead,  within  sight  of  St.  John's 
Lutheran  Church.  He  was  confirmed  at  the  age  of  sixteen  years. 
His  early  educational  advantages  were  such  as  the  district  school 
afforded.  His  academic  training  was  received  at  Susquehanna 
University,  then  Missionary  Institute,  where  he  also  took  the 
freshman  year  of  his  collegiate  course.     He  was  graduated  from 

807 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Pennsylvania  College  in  1880,  and  from  the  Theological  Seminary 
at  Gettysburg  in  1884.  During  the  year  1881-1882,  he  was 
assistant  instructor  in  Missionary  Institute,  and  during  the  years 
1 882- 1 884,  he  was  tutor  in  the  preparatory  department  of  Penn- 
sylvania College.  At  Tyrone,  in  1883,  he  received  licensure,  and 
in  1884,  at  Stoyestown,  he  was  ordained  by  the  Alleghany  Synod. 
He  was  joined  in  marriage,  in  1887,  to  Miss  Emma  E.  Hender- 
son, of  Center  County. 

He  has  served  the  following  pastorates:  Rockwood,  1885- 
1888;  Friends  Cove,  1888  to  1892;  Oriole,  Lycoming  County, 
1892-1894;  Stoyestown,  1894-1904;  Zion,  Center  County,  1905  to 
1910;  Newry, '1910-1913;  St.  John's,  East  Altoona,  1913-1916. 
At  present  he  is  serving  the  Pine  Grove  Mills  pastorate.  In 
June,  1910,  he  was  honored  with  the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity 
by  Susquehanna  University.  He  served  as  secretary  of  Alle- 
ghany Synod  during  the  years  1897- 1898. 

Henry  Herman  Flick,  Litt.A.M.,  was  born  near  Lavansville, 
in  Somerset  Township,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  September  4,  1848. 
He  received  his  early  education  in  his  grandfather's  home,  being 
taught  by  his  aunt.  In  his  ninth  year  he  read  "Parley's  Universal 
History,"  and  recited  to  his  maternal  grandfather.  He  was  con- 
firmed in  Mount  Calvary  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  Lavans- 
ville, by  the  late  Rev.  J.  P.  Hentz,  D.D.  For  some  years  he 
taught  school,  and  later  he  assisted  on  the  farm  and  cared  for 
his  grandfather,  mother  and  aunt,  until  they  were  called  away ; 
then  he  entered  the  Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  from  which  he 
graduated  in  1893.  Afterward  he  took  a  post-graduate  course, 
receiving  the  degree  of  Master  of  Ancient  Literature. 

Rev.  Flick  served  pastorates  in  the  Susquehanna,  East  Penn- 
sylvania, Maryland  and  Pittsburgh  Synods.  In  some  of  these 
charges  he  preached  both  German  and  English.  At  present  he 
is  pleasantly  located  in  the  prosperous  Grove  Chapel  pastorate, 
Indiana  County,  Pa.  In  his  home  is  found  a  library  seldom 
equaled  in  a  parsonage.  He  traces  his  ancestry  back  to  the 
Reformation.  His  great-grandfather,  Johann  Adam  Flick,  was 
one  of  the  persecuted  Saltzburgers  who  came  over  to  Ebenezer, 
Ga.,  with  General  Oglethorpe  and  the  Wesleys,  in  1735.  [See 
page  103. — Ed.]  He  later  went  to  Berks  County,  Pa.,  and  thence 
808 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


to  Somerset  County,  where  he  permanently  located.  He  and 
his  family  were  pioneer  members  of  the  old  Samuels  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church  near  Lavansville,  Pa.  Here  in  the  old  ceme- 
tery he  and  some  of  his  descendants  are  peacefully  resting.  Rev. 
Flick  has  a  son  in  the  ministry,  Rev.  Herman  H.  Flick,  who 
began  preaching  in  191 3.  These  two  descendants  of  the  perse- 
cuted Saltzburgers,  who  were  driven  from  their  native  land,  are 
now  proclaiming  the  Word  confessed  and  witnessed  by  their 
fathers,  and  rejoice  in  the  United  Lutheran  Church  in  America. 


REV.    HENRY    HERMAN    FLICK 


Herman  H.  Flick,  Jr.,  the  son  of  Rev.  Henry  H.  Flick, 
Litt.A.M.,  and  Sarah  M.,  was  born  on  a  farm  near  Lavansville. 
Somerset  County,  Pa.  He  was  educated  at  Gettysburg  and 
Susquehanna  University.  Entered  the  Theological  Seminary 
at  Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  in  1910,  and  graduated  in  1913.  Was  licensed 
to  preach  the  gospel  by  the  Pittsburgh  Synod,  at  Pittsburgh,  Pa., 
October  17,  1912,  and  was  ordained  by  the  Alleghany  Synod,  at 
Berlin,   Pa.,   October   5,    191 3.      He   is   serving  his   first   charge, 

809 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


having  preached  his  first  sermon  in  the  pastorate,  June  i,  1913. 
Rev.  Herman  H.  Flick,  Jr.,  was  married  November  1,  1916. 
to  Miss  Mabel  Edna  Duer.  She  is  the  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
J.  A.  Duer,  of  Apollo,  Pa.  She  was  educated  at  Westminster 
College,  New  Wilmington,  Pa.,  and  the  Pittsburgh  Conservatory 
of  Music,  at  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  where  she  graduated  in  1914. 

Rev.  C.  F.  Floto,  son  of  August  D.  and  Rose  Ann  Floto,  was 
born  at  Berlin,  Pa.,  March  25,  1858,  was  confirmed  at  the  age  of 
fourteen  by  the  Rev.  John  Poffenberger,  the  pastor  of  Trinity 
Lutheran  Church  of  Berlin  at  that  time.  He  began  his  ministry 
in  the  Evangelical  Association,  after,  in  preparation  for  which 
work  along  with  a  class  of  fourteen  others,  he  took  a  course  of 
studies,  covering  the  curriculum  of  Albright  College  and  Theo- 
logical Seminary  for  the  Education  of  ministers  of  that  Church. 
After  seven  years  in  the  active  ministry  his  early  training  began 
to  assert  itself ;  just  at  that  time  a  division  was  made  in  the 
Church  and  he  found  himself  geographically  on  the  minority 
side,  and  as  the  courts  were  everywhere  recognizing  the  majority 
side  as  the  Evangelical  Association,  he  saw  that  the  minority 
would  be  under  the  necessity  of  organizing  a  new  Church,  and 
not  being  in  sympathy  with  multiplying  divisions  in  the  Church 
of  Christ,  he  yielded  to  the  drawings  of  his  early  moorings  and 
transferred  his  membership  to  the  East  Ohio  Synod  of  the  Luth- 
eran Church.  He  served  the  following  charges  in  the  East  Ohio 
Synod :  West  Brookfield,  Pleasant  City,  Reedsburg ;  was  recalled 
to  Pleasant  City.  In  the  Alleghany  Synod,  Hooversville,  St. 
Stephen's,  Cumberland,  Md.  West  Pennsylvania  Synod,  Benders- 
ville,  Biglerville. 

He  was  married  twice.  His  first  wife  was  Miss  May  Lewis, 
daughter  of  Dr.  and  Jane  Lewis,  of  Berlin,  Pa.,  who  died  after 
a  period  of  five  years,  leaving  two  children,  Mrs.  Gertrude  Gib- 
son, of  New  York  City,  and  Mrs.  May  Dittlebach,  of  Santa  Fe, 
X.  M.  The  second  marriage,  with  Miss  Emma  Jane  Laub,  was 
blessed  with  seven  children,  of  whom  one  died  in  infancy.  The 
others  are  Mrs.  Alice  Scharf ,  of  Cumberland,  Md. ;  Harry, 
of  Harrisburg;  Mrs.  Anna  Cline,  Mrs.  Bessie  Capp,  Frank  and 
Mary,  of  Biglerville,  Pa. 


810 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


David  Henlein  Focht  was  born  on  a  farm  near  Williams- 
burg, then  in  Huntingdon  County,  in  1820.  He  was  descended 
from  ancestors  who  settled  on  the  big  Antietam  Creek,  in  Frank- 
lin County,  in  1720.  His  grandfather  moved  to  Huntingdon 
County,  in  1800.  Rev.  Focht  walked  across  the  mountains,  from 
Huntingdon  County  to  Gettysburg,  to  attend  school,  where  he 
was  educated  in  the  Pennsylvania  College  and  Theological 
Seminary.  After  graduation  and  ordination,  he  preached  at 
Chambersburg,  Marion,  Scotland,  Fayetteville  and  Grindstone 
Hill  Church,  Franklin  County,  later  serving  the  New  Bloomfield, 
Perry  County,  pastorate,  where  he  died,  in  1864. 


REV.    DAVID    HENLEIN    FOCHT 

His  grandsire  was  a  descendant  of  German  ancestors,  whose 
devotion  to  the  cause  of  humanity  was  inspired  in  the  Reforma- 
tion of  the  sixteenth  century,  which  found  its  expression  in  the 
pulpit,  in  the  school  and  on  the  battlefield.  One  of  his  ancestors 
was  identified  with  the  American  Revolution  of  1776.  At  Stony 
Point,  with  General  Wayne ;  at  Germantown,  and  through  the 
entire  struggle  he  stood  with  his  American  fellow-citizens. 

This  spirit  was  reflected  in  the  whole  life  of  Rev.  David  Hen- 
lein Focht.  Unable  to  take  the  field  in  the  stirring  times  of  1861 
to  1865,  he  was  a  most  loyal  supporter  of  the  National  Govern- 

811 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


ment.  An  avowed  abolitionist  and  Unionist,  he  received  not  a 
little  of  the  obloquy  once  given  advocates  of  human  freedom  and 
sturdy  champions  of  a  perpetual  Union. 

By  his  patriotic  utterances,  in  public' and  private;  by  his  un- 
wearied devotion  to  the  welfare  of  the  soldier  and  his  family,  he 
won  the  deep  affection  of  men  in  the  field  and  at  home.  Dying, 
in  1864,  from  disease  incurred  while  acting  with  the  emergency 
men  in  the  summer  of  1863,  he  did  not  live  to  see  the  great 
triumph  of  right  and  justice ;  but  with  prophetic  forecast,  he 
rested  in  the  assured  hope  that  God  would  not  let  this  Govern- 
ment pass  away  in  weakness  and  disaster. 

He  was  a  man  of  scholarly  habits  and  an  orator  and  writer  of 
note.  He  early  mastered  Latin,  Greek  and  Hebrew.  Because  of 
his  knowledge  of  geology  and  botany  and  of  the  local  history  of 
the  Juniata  settlements,  his  public  services  were  in  constant  de- 
mand, and  were  cheerfully  given.  He  wrote  numerous  volumes, 
and  many  of  his  lectures  and  public  deliverances  were  put  in 
printed  form.  The  great  outstanding  characteristics  of  Rev. 
Focht  were  his  never-failing  support  and  advocacy  of  any  issue 
that  touched  the  rights  of  men,  and  his  full  sympathy  with  every 
effort  to  relieve  the  needs  of  his  fellows. 

For  nearly  fifty  years,  he  was  survived  by  his  widow,  who,  with 
( Christian  and  motherly  devotion,  confined  her  time  to  rearing  five 
children,  all  of  whom  survive  her.  They  are  Rev.  Dr.  John  B. 
Focht,  George  M.  Focht,  Dr.  M.  L.  Focht,  former  Major  Surgeon 
in  the  Spanish-American  War;  Mrs.  H.  M.  McClure,  wife  of 
former  Judge  McClure,  and  Congressman  Benjamin  K.  Focht. 
— Sketch  by  his  son,  B.  K.  F. 

Joseph  R.  Focht  was  born  in  18 19,  in  Morrison's  Cove,  near 
Williamsburg.  He  was  confirmed  in  the  Clover  Creek  Church. 
I  laving  early  received  a  call  to  the  ministry,  he  entered  the  insti- 
tutions at  Springfield,  Ohio,  graduating  from  the  seminary  in 
1847.  He  entered  the  ministry  in  1849,  and  at  his  death,  March 
25,  1899,  had  completed  fifty  years  in  the  work,  thirty-eight  in 
arduous  pastorates  in  the  East  and  the  West. 

Previous  to  the  semi-centennial  of  the  Synod  (1892),  he  trav- 
eled throughout  the  territory  and  gathered  material  for  its  his- 
tory.    The  manuscript  was  not  published,  though  purchased  by 

812 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Synod,  and  has  been  the  source  of  most  of  the  history  of  the 
congregations  prior  to  1892,  now  presented  to  the  public.  His 
work  was  well  done,  and  meagerly  compensated,  having  received 
about  $800  for  three  years  of  severe  toil.  His  body  lies  in  the 
cemetery  at  Clover  Creek  Church. 

Leonidas  Gearhardt  was  born  in  Hesse-Darmstadt,  in  1804, 
son  of  Balthser  and  Ann  Marie  Gearhardt.  Here  he  was  con- 
firmed.    In    1819,  he   came  to  America  with  his   parents,   as   a 


REV.    J.    R.    FOCHT 

redemptioner,  and  was  hired  to  a  farmer  in  Somerset  County, 
Pa.,  to  pay  his  passage.  He  engaged  in  teaching  several  years, 
then  studied  theology  at  Gettysburg,  and  entered  the  ministry  in 
1837,  being  ordained  by  the  West  Pennsylvania  Synod.  He 
served  charges  in  Abbottstown,  Elizabethtown,  Harrisburg. 
Somerset,  Lancaster  and  Manheim.  At  the  latter  place  he  died, 
in  the  latter  seventies.  He  was  thrice  married.  He  was  a  faith- 
ful minister  and  laborer  in  his  charges,  which  flourished  under 
his  ministrations.  (Written  September  20,  1917,  by  Rev.  William 
Gearhardt,  Martinsburg,  W.  Va.,  his  youngest  brother,  who  was 

813 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


born   October  28,    181 7,   long  a  pastor  in  the   General   Council, 
Lutheran  Church.) 

The  first  wife  of  Rev.  Gerhardt  was  Anna  Marie  Fritz,  a 
member  of  the  Fritz  Church,  Garrett  Charge,  by  whom  he  had 
three  children,  Samuel,  Luther  and  Gustavus. 

William  Marquard  Beetem  Glanding,  Bellefonte,  Pa.,  son 
of  John  N.  and  Caroline  A.  Glanding,  born  in  Altoona,  Pa.,  on 
.May  27,  1856.  Confirmed  in  First  Lutheran  Church  of  Altoona, 
Pa.,  in  1868.  Collegiate  course  at  Dickinson  College,  Carlisle, 
Pa.;  A.B.  in  1878,  A.M.  in  1881  ;  member  of  Phi  Beta  Kappa. 
Graduated  at  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary  in  1881.  Licensed 
by  Alleghany  Synod,  in  Berlin,  Pa.,  in  1880.  Ordained  by  Synod 
of  Central  Pennsylvania,  in  Newport,  Pa.,  in  1881.  Pastor  of 
churches  at  Newport,  Pa. ;  Lock  Haven,  Pa. ;  Ashland,  Pa. ;  York 
(St.  Matthew's),  Pa.;  Scranton  (Grace),  Pa.;  Syracuse  (First 
English),  N.  Y. ;  Bellefonte,  Pa.  (at  present).  Professor  of 
mathematics  and  natural  science  in  Midland  College,  Atchison, 
Kan.,  during  its  first  two  years.  Married  on  June  5,  1883,  to 
Annie  E.  Howe,  in  Newport,  Pa.,  and  has  one  daughter,  Mar- 
garet L.  Glanding.  [Rev.  Glanding  died  suddenly  at  his  home, 
Sunday,  September  2$,  1917,  a  few  days  after  writing  the  above 
brief  sketch  of  his  life. — Ed.] 

Oscar  Herbert  Gruver,  Alameda,  Cal.,  was  born  November 
30,  1866,  at  Flicksville,  Northampton  County,  Pa.  His  parents 
are  Rev.  Charles  Baker  Gruver  and  Christiana  Gruver,  nee  Bach- 
man.  He  was  confirmed  by  his  father,  at  Schellsburg,  Pa.  In 
1884  and  1885,  he  was  employed  in  Law's  general  merchandise 
store,  at  Williamsburg,  Pa.  He  entered  Missionary  Institute,  at 
Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  March,  1885  ;  freshman  class  in  Pennsylvania 
College,  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  September,  1886,  graduating  June, 
1890;  Gettysburg  Seminary,  October,  1890,  graduating  June, 
1893.  He  was  licensed  to  preach  September,  1892,  at  Hollidays- 
burg,  Pa.,  by  Alleghany  Synod,  and  ordained  by  the  same  Synod, 
at  Huntingdon,  Pa.,  September,  1893.  He  served  the  following 
charges:  Hyndman,  Pa.,  August  1,  1893,  to  October  31,  1895; 
San  Francisco,  First  Lutheran  Church,  December  1,  1895,  to 
April  30,  1897;  Stockton,  Cal.,  Mission,  June  1,  1897,  to  May  31, 
814 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


1898;  Idaville,  Pa.,  November  1,  1899,  to  January  10,  1904;  Oak- 
land, Cal.,  First  Lutheran  Church,  February  1,  1904,  to  April  30, 
1910;  Alameda,  Cal.,  Christ  Lutheran  Church,  January  1,  191 5, 
to  the  present  time.  He  also  supplied  San  Francisco  and  Oak- 
land churches  while  they  were  without  pastors.  He  was  married 
to  Jennie  P.  Burnett,  of  San  Francisco,  May  25,  1904.  He  re- 
ceived the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity  from  Midland  College, 
Atchison,  Kan.,  in  1916.  Has  been  elected  delegate  to  General 
Synod  twice.  Is  treasurer  of  California  Synod.  Is  now  residing 
in  Oakland,  Cal. 

James  Buchanan  Guiney,  Whitewater,  Kan.  Parents, 
William  and  Elizabeth  Guiney.  Was  born  near  Greencastle, 
Franklin  County,  Pa.,  March  17,  1856.  Father  died  when  I  Avas 
six  years  old.  I  was  put  out  on  a  farm  near.  When  I  was  six- 
teen my  mother  moved  to  Altoona,  Pa.  There  I  worked  at 
moulding  and  car  building.  I  joined  the  First  Lutheran  Church  of 
Altoona  in  the  year  1882.  I  graduated  from  Missionary  Insti- 
tute in  1892,  and  Gettysburg  Seminary  in  1895.  I  was  licensed 
to  preach,  at  Myersdale,  in  1894,  and  ordained,  at  Somerset,  in 
1895.  I  served  the  following  charges:  Cold  Spring  Mission, 
missions  in  South  Fork,  Loganton,  all  in  Pennsylvania;  McCool 
Junction,  Neb. ;  Immanuel  charge,  Montoursville,  Pa. ;  Mill  Creek 
charge,  Pa.  At  present  charge  since  December  1,  1916,  White- 
water, Kan.  I  am  married,  and  have  two  children,  Hertha  E. 
Guiney,  graduated  from  Huntingdon  High  School,  in  June,  now 
taking  a  nurses'  training  course  in  the  Wichita  Hospital,  Kan. ; 
one  son,  Joan,  working  in  Williamsport,  Pa. 

Rev.  Winfield  Scott  Hoskinson,  Sc.D.,  D.D.,  Sacramento, 
Cal.  Born  in  Indiana  County,  Pa.,  October  3,  1852.  Confirmed 
by  Rev.  S.  P.  Snyder  in  the  Germany  pastorate  at  the  age  of  fif- 
teen. Occupation,  farmer,  school  teacher.  Trained  in  common 
school  (country),  private  normal  school  (Professor  Bonar's), 
Wittenberg  College  (all  departments),  also  theological  seminary 
of  the  same;  post-graduate  course  under  Dr.  Edgar  F.  Smith, 
and  two  semesters  in  University  of  Berlin.  Ordained  by  Miami 
Synod,  1879.  Taught  in  Wittenberg  Academy  ten  years.  Served 
but  one  pastorate,  First  Church  of  Sacramento,  Cal.     First  time, 

815 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


twenty-one  years;  now  in  second  pastorate  of  same  two  years. 
Twice  chaplain  of  Senate  of  California ;  once  chaplain  of  Assem- 
bly of  California. 

C.  F.  Jacobs,  McConnellsburg,  Pa.,  the  son  of  Casper  Jacobs 
and  Christina  Ulery  Jacobs,  sister  of  Revs.  William  F.  and 
Christian  D.  Ulery,  was  born  at  Bakersville,  Somerset  County, 
Pa.,  September  i,  1865.  Confirmed  in  Mt.  Zion  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church,  Bakersville,  Pa.,  March  22,  1880. 

Brought  up  on  a  farm,  educated  in  the  public  schools  at  Bakers- 
ville and  the  local  normal  schools  of  the  county,  with  special 
instruction  in  the  languages  by  Professor  Stutzman,  of  Somerset, 
Pa.  After  teaching  for  six  years  in  the  public  schools  and  local 
normal  schools,  entered  the  freshman  class  of  Pennsylvania  Col- 
lege, Gettysburg,  graduating  with  the  class  of  1892,  and  with  the 
class  of  1895  in  the  Theological  Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  Pa. 

Ordained  October,  1895.  First  charge,  Sinking  Valley, 
Tyrone,  Pa.,  three  years ;  second,  St.  Mark's,  Steelton,  Pa.,  four 
years  ;  third,  St.  James',  York  Pa.,  fourteen  years  ;  present  charge, 
McConnellsburg,  Pa. 

On  October  2,  1895,  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Puria  H. 
Krout,  of  York,  Pa.,  sister  of  Rev.  Joseph  D.  Krout.  Family 
consists  of  three  daughters,  Dorothy  L.,  Margaret  L.  and  Carolyn 
I.,  and  one  son,  Charles  Richard. 

E.  S.  Johnston,  D.D.,  Elk  Lick,  Pa.,  was  born  April  9,  1834, 
in  Kishacoquillas  Valley,  Mifflin  County,  Pa.  Parents  were 
Russell  P.  and  Bridget  McGinley.  When  about  two  years  old, 
his  parents  moved  to  Sinking  Valley,  Blair  County,  where  the 
remaining  years  of  his  childhood  and  youth  were  spent.  Here 
he  enjoyed  the  privileges,  and  obtained  the  primary  education 
afforded  by  the  public  schools  of  that  valley.  In  due  time  he  was 
graduated  from  the  college  at  Gettysburg,  in  the  class  of  1858. 
He  was  then  tutor  at  his  alma  mater  for  two  years.  Licensed 
to  gospel  ministry  by  the  Central  Synod,  at  Duncannon,  on  May 
25,  i860,  and  ordained  to  his  life  work  by  the  East  Pennsylvania 
Synod,  at  Germantown,  in  the  fall,  1861.  He  organized  the 
Messiah  Lutheran  Church  of  Harrisburg,  Pa.,  and  pastor  there 
for  six  vears ;  then  at  Emmitsburg,  Md.,  for  twenty-two  years; 
816 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


at  Stoyestown,  Pa.,  for  six  years ;  at  Elk  Lick,  Pa.,  for  eleven 
years,  and  at  Wellersburg,  Pa.,  for  ten  years.  Fifty-four  years 
and  eight  months  in  the  active  work  of  the  Lutheran  ministry. 
For  twenty-two  years  of  this  time  he  was  a  member  of  the 
Maryland  Synod,  and  honored  by  that  body  by  being,  for  at  least 
one  term,  their  president,  and  for  many  years  as  a  director  of 
the  Theological  Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  and  by  electing  him  for 
some  live  or  six  times  to  General  Svnod. 


REV.    E.    S.    JOHNSTON,   D.D. 

For  the  last  twenty-nine  years  he  has  been  a  member  of  the 
Alleghany  Synod.  Having  been  reared  on  the  territory  of  this 
Synod,  he  was  always  looked, upon  as  one  of  the  Sons  of  Alle- 
ghany Synod,  and  when  he  became  a  member  of  the  Synod,  they 
sent  him  to  the  General  Synod,  made  him  a  member  of  the  Exam- 
ining Committee,  and  twice  elected  him  as  their  president. 

When  in  Harrisburg,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Annie  M.  O'Dell, 

817 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


of  Gettysburg,  Pa,  May  28,  1861,  by  the  Rev.  Henry  L.  Baugher, 
D.D.,  president  of  Pennsylvania  College.  His  family  numbers 
four  sons  and  one  daughter.  Russell,  the  oldest,  lives  at  Odebolt, 
Iowa.  The  next,  John,  is  at  home.  The  third,  Edwin,  lives  in 
Altoona,  Pa.,  and  the  youngest  son  is  Robert,  who  lives  in  Elk 
Lick,  Pa.     Miss  Carrie  is  at  home. 

Wayne  Oburn  Kantner,  son  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  G. 
Kantner,  was  born  at  Altoona,  Pa.,  September  22,  1887.  As  an 
infant,  he  was  baptized  by  the  Rev.  E.  D.  Weigle,  D.D.  At  the 
age  of  six  years,  he  entered  the  catechetical  class,  under  the  in- 
struction of  the  Rev.  M.  W.  Hanna,  D.D.,  and  was  in  attendance 
until  confirmed  at  the  age  of  thirteen  years.  The  rite  of  con- 
firmation was  received  from  the  hands  of  the  Rev.  O.  C.  Roth, 
D.D.,  who  was  then  pastor  at  the  First  Lutheran  Church. 

As  a  child,  Rev.  Kantner  entered  the  Altoona  public  schools, 
and  was  graduated  from  the  high  school,  June  6,  1905.  He 
worked  one  year  as  a  clerk  in  the  freight  office  of  the  Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad  Company,  and  then  entered  the  Pennsylvania 
State  College.  Here  he  completed  the  course  in  philosophy  and 
education,  and  graduated  with  the  degree  of  Bachelor  of  Arts,  on 
June  15,  19 10.  In  the  fall  of  the  same  year  he  entered  the 
Hamma  Divinity  School  of  Wittenberg  College,  Springfield, 
Ohio.  Here  he  completed  the  work,  and  was  graduated  with 
the  degree  of  Bachelor  of  Divinity,  on  May  4,  1913.  Immediately 
after  graduation,  Rev.  Kantner  was  commissioned  by  the  Board 
of  Home  Missions,  and  entered  upon  the  work  at  St.  Paul's 
Church,  Battle  Creek,  Mich.,  and  he  has  been  serving  this  congre- 
gation ever  since.  He  has  been  greatly  helped  in  this  work  by 
the  kindly  interest  of  the  First  Lutheran  Church  of  Altoona,  and 
of  its  present  pastor,  the  Rev.  Marion  J.  Kline,  D.D. 

On  October  15,  191 3,  Rev.  Kantner  was  ordained  by  the 
Wittenberg  Synod,  at  Gabon,  Ohio.  On  June  22,  1914,  he  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Bernice  Cramer,  of  Battle  Creek, 
Mich.  While  in  attendance  at  college  and  in  the  seminary,  Rev. 
Kantner  always  took  an  active  interest  in  religious  work.  He 
taught  Bible  classes  and  conducted  prayer  meetings  among  the 
students  at  the  Pennsylvania  State  College,  and  also  did  work 
among  the  children  of  the  community  in  one  of  the  local  churches. 
818 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


While  at  the  seminary,  Rev.  Kantner  interested  himself  in  the 
Juvenile  Court  work  of  the  city  of  Springfield,  and  served  as  a 
probation  officer  for  several  years.  He  was  also  engaged  in 
Sunday  School  work  in  several  of  the  city  missions. 

George  J.  M.  Ketner,  Central  Bridge,  N.  Y.  Parents,  Daniel 
Ketner  and  Catharine  Garner  Ketner.  Place  of  birth,  Aetna, 
Pa.,  October  17,  1867.  Confirmation  in  St.  James'  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church,  Clover  Creek,  Pa.,  Easter  Sunday,  1879.  Occu- 
pation, farmer.  Schooling,  Selinsgrove  and  Gettysburg.  Ordina- 
tion, 1895.  Marriage,  December  18,  1895.  '  Wife,  Susie  B. 
Warren  Ketner.  Children  living,  three.  Charges  served :  New 
Chester,  Pa. ;  St.  John's,  Davis,  West  Va. ;  Reformation,  New 
York  City;  St.  Paul's,  West  Camp,  N.  Y.,  and  Bethany,  Central 
Bridge,  N.  Y. 

J.  F.  Kuhlman.     (For  sketch  see  page  216.) 

Luther  Kuhlman,  D.D.,  York,  Pa.  The  subject  of  this 
sketch  is  the  son  of  Rev.  J.  F.  Kuhlman  and  his  wife,  Louisa 
Smith  Kuhlman,  and  was  born  at  New  Centerville,  Somerset 
County,  Pa.,  in  185 1.  As  a  lad,  he  noticed  that  some  of  his  com- 
panions had  more  than  a  single  name,  and  when  he  went  to  his 
father  for  an  explanation,  the  latter  explained  briefly  who  Luther 
was,  and  concluded  by  saying  that  he  thought  "Luther"  was  a 
large  enough  name  for  any  boy.    He  has  been  content  ever  since. 

Early  he  lost  his  mother,  and  the  impressionable  years  of  child- 
hood and  youth  were  spent  in  the  home  of  his  grandparents,  on 
the  father's  side.  These  were  plain  German  people,  but  deeply 
religious,  and  the  influence  of  their  simple,  genuine  piety  remains 
a  benediction  to  this  hour. 

His  educational  advantages  were  those  of  a  farmer's  boy  of 
that  day — the  common  school,  and  the  normal  school,  which  was 
then  quite  popular  and  rendered  a  splendid  service  to  many  a 
boy  and  girl.  At  the  age  of  seventeen,  he  received  his  first  cer- 
tificate, and  taught  his  first  school  in  Somerset  County. 

Then  seven  years  were  spent  with  his  father,  who  was  the 
home  missionary  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  Nebraska.  There 
is  not  space  to  evaluate  the  influence  of  these  years.     It  must 

819 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


suffice  to  say  that  in  the  strong  and  sterling  character  of  the 
father  the  religious  element  is  easily  master.  His  prayers  and 
teaching  and  preaching,  his  labors  and  sacrifices,  his  devotion  and 
unswerving  integrity  made  abiding  impressions. 

Educationally,  these  years  were  important.  At  least  three  of 
them  were  spent  in  teaching.  He  is  a  charter  student  of  the  Uni- 
versity of  Nebraska,  and  spent  two  years  in  that  institution.  In 
January,  1876,  he  entered  the  freshman  class  of  Pennsylvania 
College,  at  Gettysburg,  graduating  in  1879,  with  second  honor 
and  the  valedictory.  The  decision  to  enter  the  Christian  ministry 
was  reached  at  the  end  of  the  sophomore  year,  and  thereafter, 
with  the  exception  of  one  year,  he  was  a  beneficiary  of  the  Alle- 
ghany Synod. 

His  theological  course  was  taken  at  the  seminary,  in  Gettys- 
burg, under  Drs.  Brown,  Hay,  Wolf  and  Stork.  In  1881,  after 
an  examination  in  systematic  theology  lasting  four  and  one-half 
hours,  he  was  licensed,  at  Bedford,  and  ordained  the  following 
year,  at  Elk  Lick.  Of  the  thirty-five  years  that  have  elapsed, 
twenty-one  were  given  to  the  regular  pastorate,  first  in  the  Jen- 
nerstown  charge  of  the  Alleghany  Synod,  then  at  the  Second 
Lutheran  Church,  Baltimore,  and  nearly  sixteen  years  as  pastor 
of  our  old,  historic  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  of  Frederick 
City,  Md.  Thirteen  years  he  was  professor  of  Biblical  theology 
in  the  seminary  at  Gettysburg,  and  now,  for  one  year,  he  has 
been  field  secretary  of  the  Board  of  Foreign  Missions.  Prior  to 
his  acceptance  of  this  position,  he  was  for  thirty-two  years  a 
member  of  the  Board  of  Foreign  Missions,  and  for  nineteen  of 
those  years  he  was  president  of  the  Board.  In  1910,  he  was 
chosen  by  the  Board,  one"  of  the  four  representatives  to  which 
the  General  Synod  was  entitled,  a  delegate  to  the  World  Mis- 
sionary Conference,  held  in  Edinburgh,  .  Scotland.  He  took 
advantage  of  this  opportunity  to  extend  his  visit  to  the  principal 
Luther  places  in  Germany,  to  Greece,  the  chief  missions  of  the 
Near  East,  to  the  Holy  Land,  and  to  Egypt  and  the  Nile.  He 
has  taken  an  active,  and  frequently  a  prominent,  part  in  the  work 
and  on  the  committees  of  the  Maryland  Synod.  A  goodly  num- 
ber of  times  he  has  been  a  delegate  to  the  General  Synod,  and 
his  voice  has  been  heard  on  the  floor  of  that  body. 

He  was  united  in  marriage  with  Alice  Louise  Warren,  Gettys- 
820 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


burg,  Pa.,  in  1882.  She  remains  with  him  to  this  present,  and 
through  all  these  years  she  has  been  his  earnest  and  efficient  co- 
worker. 

Charles  Edward  Liebegott,  Avonmore,  Pa.,  was  born  of 
German  parentage  at  Altoona,  Pa.,  August  16,  1888.  He  was 
confirmed  in  1906.  He  is  a  graduate  of  the  Martinsburg  High 
School,  Gettysburg  Academy,  Gettysburg  College  and  Seminary, 
and  was  ordained  October  5,  1915.  He  served  the  Avonmore 
charge,  June  1,  1915,  to  October  1,  1917,  when  he  goes  to  Temple 
Church,  Pittsburgh.  He  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Clara 
Elaine  Paysen,  Orange,  N.  J..  September  7,  1916. 

James  A.  Lowe,  A.M.,  was  born  on  a  farm  near  Smicksburg, 
Pa.,  October  22,  185 1,  of  English  and  Scotch-Irish  parents.  He 
was  baptized  by  Rev.  Pyle,  converted  and  confirmed  under  the 
ministry  of  Rev.  Charles  L.  Streamer.  Attended  the  village 
school,  and  later  a  Presbyterian  academy.  Taught  several  terms 
of  public  school;  advanced  his  education  at  Wittenberg  College, 
where  he  received  beneficiary  aid  from  the  Alleghany  Synod. 
Taught  two  years  in  Ansgari  College,  Knoxville,  111.  Ordained 
by  the  Kansas  Synod,  at  Abilene^  Kan.,  in  1880.  Served  charges 
as  follows :  Hardy,  Neb. ;  Waterville,  Kan. ;  Hutchinson,  Kan. ; 
Wichita,  Kan. ;  Chapman,  Kan. ;  Jerico,  Mo.,  where  he  also  taught 
as  principal  of  the  high  school  for  eight  years ;  Beatrice,  Neb. ; 
Wilber,  Neb. ;  McCool  Junction,  Neb.,  and  Fernald,  la.,  where  he 
is  pastor  at  present.  President  of  Kansas  Synod  three  years,  and 
of  Nebraska  Synod  three  years.  Twenty-two  years  member  of 
Board  of  Trustees  of  Midland  College.  He  was  married,  in 
1877,  to  Eugenie  Wertz,  of  Oregon,  111.,  who  died  in  1912.  Their 
son,  Rev.  Charles  R.  Lowe,  is  pastor  of  the  Lutheran  Church  in 
Dakota  City,  Neb.  J.  A.  Lowe  was  married  to  Mrs.  Anna  J. 
Peters,  in  1916.  He  has  served  about  forty  years  in  the  Lutheran 
ministry,  about  fifteen  under  control  of  the  Home  Mission  Board. 
For  any  and  all  the  good  he  may  have  accomplished,  the  praise 
belongeth  unto  the  Lord. 

Edmund  L.  Manges,  Lemoyne,  Pa.,  was  born  in  Alleghany 
Township,  Somerset  County,  a  son  of  Rev.  Edmund  and  Mar- 

821 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


garet  Manges,  December  I,  1885.  I  was  confirmed  at  the  age 
of  twelve,  in  St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Church,  Felton,  Pa.,  of  which 
my  father  was  pastor. 

I  hold  diplomas  from  the  York,  Pa.,  High  School,  Pennsyl- 
vania College,  Gettysburg,  Pa. ;  the  Lutheran  Theological 
Seminary,  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  and  from  Union  Theological 
Seminary,  New  York  City. 

My  ordination  occurred  October  20,  191 2,  the  Central  Illinois 
Synod  being  the  ordaining  body,  in  Grace  Church,  Springfield, 
111.  My  first  pastorate  was  at  Champaign-Urbana,  111.,  and  lasted 
for  one  year,  after  which  I  became  pastor  of  Trinity  Lutheran 
Church  of  Lemoyne,  Pa. 

Miss  Grace  Blocher,  of  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  became  my  wife  on 
April  17,  1913.  We  are  the  parents  of  one  child,  Frances  May 
Manges. 

My  present  pastorate  may  soon  come  to  an  end,  for  I  have 
word  from  the  War  Department  that  I  have  been  designated  to 
take  the  examination  for  a  chaplaincy  in  the  National  Army. 
Should  I  pass,  my  future  address  will  be  "somewhere  in,  etc." 

Raymond  Law  Markley,  Fayetteville,  Pa.,  son  of  William 
Harmon  Markley  and  Sarah  Lydia  Law  Markley,  was  born  at 
Altoona,  Pa.,  August  31,  1888.  Married,  June  27,  191 7,  to  Miss 
Mary  Lydia  Thrush,  of  Chambersburg,  Pa.  The  greatest  part 
of  my  life  has  been  spent  in  school,  from  the  time  I  was  admitted, 
as  a  boy  of  six,  to  the  public  schools  of  Altoona,  until  my  gradua- 
tion, in  191 5.  from  the  Lutheran  Seminary,  at  Gettysburg,  as  a 
minister. 

During  my  grammar  school  and  high  school  days,  carried 
papers  for  a  time,  both  morning  and  evening.  I  was  very  am- 
bitious to  be  a  newspaper  man  at  this  time,  following  the  example 
of  my  uncle,  who  at  present  is  general  manager  and  vice-presi- 
dent of  the  Altoona  Tribune,  who  rose  from  the  humble  position 
of  a  carrier.  My  uncle  is  a  member  of  this  Synod,  and  has 
attended  several  of  its  sessions.  My  last  two  years  in  high 
school  I  was  chief  mail  clerk  on  the  Altoona  Tribune,  which 
required  me  to  arise  at  3.30  a.m.  My  first  intention  when  I 
entered  high  school  was  to  pursue  the  commercial  course,  which 
would  have  made  me  a  stenographer.  I  became  dissatisfied  when 
822 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


my  classmates  would  talk  about  entering  college,  and  I  could  not. 
I  then,  together  with  my  commercial  course,  studied  the  principal 
academic  branches. 

I  entered  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  in  the  fall  of 
1908,  as  a  classical  student,  and  graduated  in  1912.  My  papers 
had  been  accepted  by  Dean  Rogers,  of  Yale  Law  School,  to  enter 
Yale  Law  School.  The  unexpected  took  place.  In  July,  my  only 
sister  died.  This  death  in  my  home  made  me  think  seriously  of 
life  and  religion.  During  this  period  the  call  came  for  me  to 
dedicate  my  life  to  the  ministry  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ.  During  the  summer  months  in  college,  I  secured  work 
wherever  I  could,  and  worked  as  a  stenographer  for  the  Altoona 
Tribune,  a  real  estate  firm,  and  was  also  on  an  engineering  corps 
for  one  summer.  Preached  in  my  home  church,  in  1913,  during 
the  month  of  August,  in  absence  of  my  pastor,  Doctor  Kline,  of 
the  First  Lutheran  Church. 

I  was  licensed  by  Alleghany  Synod,  in  191 5.  I  was  elected  to 
the  Fayetteville  charge,  March  7,  19 15.  I  have  been  serving  the 
charge  since  that  time.  I  was  ordained,  October  14,  191 5,  in 
Christ  Lutheran  Church,  Gettysburg. 

Jacob  E.  Maurer,  son  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jeremiah  Maurer,  of 
Stovestown,  Pa.,  was  born  in  Jenner  Township,  Somerset 
County,  Pa.,  October  27,  1854.  Was  confirmed  in  St.  James' 
Lutheran  Church  of  his  native  county,  in  December,  1868,  Rev. 
J.  B.  Crist,  pastor.  Licensed  by  the  Alleghany  Synod,  Sep- 
tember 10,  1882,  at  Salisbury,  Pa.  Ordained  by  the  Kansas 
Synod,  October  28,  1883,  at  Eureka,  Kan.  Served  as  a  home 
missionary  for  over  nine  years ;  missionary  president  of  the 
Pittsburgh  Synod  for  nearly  three  years ;  president  of  the 
Maryland  Synod,  1901  and  1902 ;  pastor  at  Boonsboro,  Md.  ; 
Lititz,  Pa. ;  Mt.  Carroll,  111. ;  Minerva,  Ohio ;  Lovettsville,  Va. 

L  J.  MiNEMiER,  Minersville,  Pa.,  son  of  George  and  Eliza 
Minemier,  whose  parents  were  of  German  descent.  My  parents 
were  stalwart  Lutherans,  holding  fast  to  the  faith  once  delivered 
to  the  saints.  I  was  born  in  the  vicinity  of  Warrior's  Mark, 
Huntingdon  County.  Pa.,  a  little  over  a  half  century  ago.  At 
the  age  of  sixteen,  I  was  confirmed  in  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 

823 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Church  of  Half  Moon  Valley,  Sinking  Valley  charge.  My  occu- 
pation when  a  boy  was  that  of  a  farmer.  I  attended  the  district 
school  in  what  is  known  as  Krider  Valley  until  I  was  a  full-grown 
young  man.  When  quite  young,  I  was  married  to  Miss  Emma 
Johnson,  daughter  of  Stansberry  and  Rebecca  Johnson,  of 
Warrior's  Mark,  Pa.  In  the  fall  of  1886,  in  company  with  my 
wife,  we  went  to  Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  where  I  attended  college.  In 
the  spring  of  1891,  I  graduated  from  the  seminary,  and  in  the 
fall  of  same  year,  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel.  In  the 
year  1892,  I  was  ordained.  Charges  served  are  the  following: 
Liverpool,  Pa. ;  Espytown,  Pa. ;  Berrien  Springs,  Mich. ;  Van- 
dalia,  Ohio;  Dansville,  N.  Y. ;  Friends  Cove,  R.  F.  D.,  Bedford, 
Pa.,  and  my  present  pastorate,  Minersville,  Pa.  We  have  eight 
children,  all  living  and  doing  well — three  sons  and  five  daughters. 
Let  me  say,  in  closing  my  remarks,  that  I  am  not  sorry  I  am 
a  minister.  It  is  the  most  noble  calling  under  the  sun,  notwith- 
standing its  discouragements. 

Shile  Miller,  born  in  1862,  near  Bakersville.  Father's  name, 
Jacob  Miller ;  mother's,  Elizabeth.  He  was  confirmed  at  Bakers- 
ville. Was  raised  on  a  farm,  educated  at  Gettysburg,  where  he 
graduated  in  1889  or  1890.  His  first  charge  was  Lilly,  Pa. ;  his 
last,  Smicksburg,  Pa.  He  is  laboring  in  Methodist  Church  now. 
He  is  married,  and  has  four  children. 

Michael  Reed  Minnich,  4935  Larchwood  Avenue,  Phila- 
delphia, Pa.,  born  in  Schellsburg,  Bedford  County,  Pa.,  No- 
vember 14,  1846.  Baptized  in  infancy.  Confirmed  by  the  Rev. 
S.  Yingling,  in  Trinity  Lutheran  Church,  Bedford,  Pa.,  when 
twelve  years  old.  Preparatory  education  in  the  public  schools 
and  the  Bedford  Classical  Institute.  Completed  preparation  for 
college  at  Gettysburg,  where  I  graduated,  A.B.,  in  the  class  of 
1870,  and  received  in  course  A.M.,  1873.  Graduate  of  the 
Lutheran  Theological  Seminary,  Philadelphia,  1873,  an<^  was 
ordained  by  the  Ministerium  of  Pennsylvania,  in  the  same  year. 
Parents,  John  G.  and  Maria  C.  (Reed)  Minnich. 

Served  as  deputy  clerk  of  the  courts  of  Bedford  County 
(1864)  before  I  had  been  called  and  concluded  to  study  for  the 
ministry.  After  ordination,  was  called  to  the  Evangelical 
824 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Lutheran  Church  (Christ),  Staunton,  Va.,  which  I  served  until 
the  latter  part  of  1877.  Was  secretary  and  ad  interim  president 
of  the  Virginia  Synod  ( 1874)  ;  instructor  in  English  literature  in 
Staunton  Female  Seminary,  1875-1877;  chaplain  of  Western 
Lunatic  Asylum,  Staunton,  Va.,  1873-1877;  recalled,  1880,  by  the 
president  of  the  Virginia  Synod  and  a  part  of  the  Staunton  con- 
gregation, to  act  as  "peace-maker"  in  a  divided  charge. 

Honorably  dismissed  from  the  Virginia  Synod,  1903,  to  con- 
nect with  the  "Mother  Synod"  of  Pennsylvania.  During  the 
years  following,  to  1906,  did  missionary  supply  and  preliminary 
mission  work.  Charges  served :  Good  Shepherd,  Overbrook, 
Philadelphia,  1907-1908;  associate  pastor,  "Incarnation,"  Phila- 
delphia, 1908-1909;  missionary,  Philadelphia  City  Mission,  July 
1,  1909.  Publications:  "Necessity  of  a  Firm  Adherence  to  the 
Word  of  God,"  sermon,  1876,  Staunton,  Va. ;  "Plea  for  Peace, 
Harmony  and  Unity,"  sermon,  published  by  the  congregation, 
Staunton,  Va.,  1880;  varied  contributions  to  church  periodicals, 
"John  Frederick  Hillegas,"  sketch,  Pennsylvania  Magazine  of 
History  and  Biography,  1894;  "Some  Data  of  the  Hillegas 
Family,"  American  Historical  Register,  April,  1894 ;  "The  Schell 
Family,"  historical  and  genealogical,  Pennsylvania  German 
Magazine,  July,  1901  ;  "A  Memoir  of  the  First  Treasurer  of  the 
United  States  (Michael  Hillegas),"  eighty-seven  pages,  acknowl- 
edged by  the  United  States  Treasury  Department,  by  placing 
Hillegas  on  the  $10  gold  certificates,  vide;  "John  Bachman, 
D.D.,  LL.D.,  Ph.D.,"  Audubon's  Collaborator.  An  address  be- 
fore the  meeting  of  the  Historical  Society  of  Montgomery  County, 
at  Audubon,  Pa.,  October  7,  1903.  Published  by  the  Society, 
volume  three,  1905.  Member  of  the  Pennsylvania  Society,  Sons 
of  the  Revolution;  Montgomery  County  (Pa.)  Historical  So- 
ciety, and  for  some  time  member  of  Historical  Society  of  Penn- 
sylvania, and  the  Franklin  Institute. 

Ernest  Luther  Pee,  High  Spire,  Pa.,  son  of  John  and  Georgie 
Pee  (his  mother  the  daughter  of  the  late  Rev.  George  C.  Probst), 
was  born  in  East  Providence  Township,  near  Everett,  Pa.,  on 
April  18,  1888.  He  was  confirmed  in  the  Mt.  Pleasant  Church 
of  the  Clearville  charge. 

His  early  occupation  consisted  in  helping  his  father  on  the  little 

825 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


farm  and  occasionally  hiring  out  among  neighbors  during  the 
busy  seasons.  He  also  worked  for  some  time  at  well  drilling. 
During  the  winter,  school,  reading  and  chopping  wood  were 
always  the  regular  lines  of  work.  After  completing  the  common 
school  work,  he  attended  Summer  normal  schools  for  teachers, 
and  received  a  teacher's  certificate  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  As  soon 
as  the  law  allowed,  he  applied  for  a  position  as  teacher,  and  was 
elected  as  teacher  in  one  of  the  home  township  schools.  He 
taught  two  years,  and  then  went  to  Gettysburg  Academy  and 
prepared  for  college.  He  was  graduated  from  Pennsylvania  Col- 
lege, at  Gettysburg,  in  1913.  In  the  fall  of  1913,  he  entered  the 
Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary,  and  was  granted  a  diploma  by 
that  institution  in  1916. 

He  immediately  accepted  a  call  to  become  pastor  of  St.  Peter's 
Lutheran  Church  of  High  Spire,  Pa.,  and  began  work  on  that 
field  June  18,  1916.  He  was  married  to  Miss  Kathryn  Diehl,  of 
York,  Pa.,  on  August  8,  1916.  He  was  ordained  by  the  East 
Pennsylvania  Synod,  on  October  4,  1916,  in  Messiah  Lutheran 
Church,  Philadelphia,  Pa. 

Just  about  six  months  after  taking  up  the  work  at  High  Spire, 
the  church  building  was  entirely  destroyed  by  fire.  The  congre- 
gation is  now  rebuilding.  The  new  church,  larger  and  more  fully 
equipped  than  the  old  one,  will  soon  be  under  roof. 

Graft  M.  Pile  was  born  at  Somerset,  in  1825,  and  died  at 
De  Soto,  Mo.,  March  8,  1912,  aged  eighty-seven  years.  He 
entered  the  ministry  in  1856.  Among  the  places  served  were  the 
local  churches  of  Somerset,  Lavansville,  Bakersville,  Center- 
ville  ;  also  in  Indiana  County,  Pa.,  and  Springfield,  111.  For  three 
years  he  was  chaplain  of  the  Fifty-fourth  Regiment,  Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers,  a  regiment  recruited  in  part  locally,  in  the 
Civil  War.     He  lived  his  later  years  in  the  town  where  he  died. 

Booz  Franklin  Pugh,  Ottawa,  Kan.,  youngest  child  of  James 
P.  and  Rachel  Smith  Pugh,  was  born  seven  miles  from  Somerset, 
Pa.,  on  August  4,  1847,  on  a  farm.  Attending  winter  school 
and  working  on  the  farm  until  August,  1864,  when  he  entered 
the  Union  Army,  and  remained  until  August.  1865.  Returned 
826 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


to  the  farm,  attended  school,  and  taught  until  1871.  September, 
I  entered  "Missionary  Institute,"  now  "Susquehanna  University," 
Selinsgrove,  Pa.  Graduated,  and  ordained  by  Susquehanna 
Synod,  at  Bloomsburg,  June,  1877.  I  received  aid  from  Alle- 
ghany Synod,  for  four  years,  at  $150  each.  I  received,  and 
accepted,  a  call  from  Orangeville,  111.,  July  1,  1877.  I  was  bap- 
tized into  the  Lutheran  Church  by  Rev.  C.  W.  Shaffer,  at  Pied- 
mont, W.  Va.,  where  I  was  teaching,  December  11,  1870.  In  1883, 
I  accepted  a  call  to  missionary  work  at  Rising  City,  Butler  County 
charge,  Neb.,  until  1888;  then  to  Tekamah,  Neb.,  until  1891 ;  to 
Sabetha,  Kan.,  1891  to  1894;  to  Wellington,  Kan.,  until  1898, 
when  I  came  to  Ottawa.  Pastor  six  years.  Supplied  Garnett,  Kan., 
eight  years,  and  now  doing  supply  work  as  I  have  opportunity, 
for  the  people  do  not  want  an  old  man  as  pastor,  and  I  was 
seventy  years  young  last  August  4.  I  was  married  to  Frances 
Adaline  Cadwell,  who  was  organist  at  Orangeville,  111.,  my  first 
charge,  September  10,  1878.  Together  we  selected  music  for 
Sabbath  service,  and  she  selected  the  him.  Miss  Cadwell  had 
relatives  at  Elmira,  N.  Y.,  and  there  we  were  married  by  Dr. 
H.  Ziegler,  of  Selinsgrove,  Pa.  We  have  two  sons  and  three 
daughters. 

John  Calvin  Reighard,  Blaine,  Pa.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch, 
was  born  in  Bedford  Township,  Bedford  County,  Pa.,  October 
19,  1858.  His  parents  were  Andrew  J.  and  Sarah  A.  (Whet- 
stone) Reighard.  His  early  life  was  spent  on  the  farm  and  in 
the  common  schools  of  the  county.  In  order  to  fit  himself  for 
commercial  life,  he  took  the  course  in  Duff's  Business  College, 
Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  but  being  of  a  literary  turn  of  mind,  he  entered 
Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  and  was  graduated  from 
that  institution  June  28,  1888.  He  studied  theology  in  the 
seminary  of  the  General  Synod,  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  and  was  gradu- 
ated June  11,  1891.  At  present  he  is  a  member  of  the  Board  of 
Directors  of  this  institution.  On  October  8,  1890,  he  was  licensed 
by  the  Maryland  Synod,  in  the  Memorial  Lutheran  Church, 
Washington,  D.  C,  and  ordained  by  Central  Pennsylvania  Synod, 
at  Duncannon,  Pa.,  October  4,  1891.  The  following  pastorates 
have  been  served  by  him  up  to  date:  Milroy,  Pa.,  July  1,  1891, 
to  April  1,  1894;  McAlisterville,  Pa.,  April  1,  1894,  to  April  1, 

827 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


1904;  St.  Thomas,  Pa.,  April  1,  1904,  to  November  15,  1907, 
when  he  became  pastor  of  the  Blaine  charge. 

In  1892,  October  19,  he  married  Annie  B.  Mickley,  of  Gettys- 
burg, Pa.,  who  departed  this  life  June  14,  1917. 

One  daughter,  Mary  A.  Reighard,  who  is  now  a  sophomore, 
pursuing  the  regular  course  in  domestic  art  and  science,  at  State 
College,  Pa.,  is  the  only  issue  of  this  union. 

The  Rev.  J.  C.  Reighard  wishes  to  say  in  this  connection  that 
he  was  the  second  beneficiary  of  the  late  Job  Mann's  benefactions, 
of  Bedford,  Pa.,  and  to  whose  generous  support  he  owes  the 
whole  trend  of  his  life. 

H.  O.  Reynolds,  Sidman,  Pa.,  is  the  son  of  Silvanus  A.  and 
Mary  A.  Reynolds,  born  at  South  Fork,  March  3,  1870,  and 
united  with  the  Lutheran  Church,  at  South  Fork,  on  the  day  of 
its  dedication.  Entered  Susquehanna  University,  1898,  gradu- 
ating from  the  seminary,  1905,  and  having  served  the  pastorates 
of  McClure,  Espy-Briar  Creek,  Davidsville,  Redeemer  of  Will- 
iamsport,  Pa.  Assumed  charge  of  South  Fork  pastorate  June  1, 
191 5.    A  prophet  in  his  own  country. 

H.  S.  Rhoads,  Leipsic,  Ohio,  son  of  William  M.  and  Susan 
Rhoads,  was  born  near  Somerset,  April  6,  1871.  He  was  bap- 
tized by  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  and,  by  confirmation,  received 
into  the  Wills  Lutheran  Church  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  J.  J. 
Welch.  It  was  largely  through  Rev.  Welch's  influence  that  he 
was  led  to  enter  the  gospel  ministry. 

His  early  days  were  spent  on  the  farm.  His  education  was 
secured  in  the  public  schools,  local  normal  schools,  the  California 
State   Normal,   Gettysburg   College   and   Theological    Seminary. 

While  he  was  yet  in  the  seminary,  he  was  employed  by  the 
Home  Mission  Board  to  canvass  the  field  in  Newark,  N.  J.,  and 
organize  the  first  General  Synod  Sunday  School  and  church  in 
that  city  of  300,000  people.  He  remained  here  three  years,  built 
up  a  strong  Sunday  School,  a  flourishing  congregation,  and  a 
good  church  building,  making  the  work  permanent. 

He  was  ordained  in  St.  James'  Lutheran  Church,  New  York 
City,  in  October,  1904.  In  1907,  he  was  called  to  become  the 
first  pastor  of  the  Moxham  Lutheran  Church,  Johnstown,  Pa. 
828 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


He  remained  here  nine  years,  building  up  that  congregation  to 
one  of  the  strongest  in  the  Synod.  In  1916,  he  accepted  a  call 
to  the  First  Lutheran  Church  of  Leipsic,  Ohio,  in  which  field  he 
is  at  present  located. 

In  1904,  Rev.  Rhoads  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Sudie 
Seacrist,  of  Green  Castle,  Pa.  They  have  one  child,  Paul,  who 
is  nine  years  old. 

Herbert  Adron  Rinard,  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  son  of  Henry  and 
Rebecca  Rinard,  born  at  Breezewood,  Bedford  County,  Pa., 
1878.  Confirmed  in  Zion  Lutheran  Church,  Breezewood,  1894. 
Taught  by  Rev.  S.  J.  McDowell  and  Rev.  G.  K.  Allen.  My  early 
occupation  was  farming  and  school  teaching.  My  schooling  was 
as  follows :  Private  tutoring  under  Professor  Charles  S.  Barton, 
of  Shippensburg  Normal  School;  one  year,  Susquehanna  Pre- 
paratory ;  one  year  in  Gettysburg  Academy ;  graduate  of  Gettys- 
burg College,  1903;  Gettysburg  Seminary,  1906;  graduate  student. 
University  of  Pennsylvania,  receiving  master's  degree.  Dis- 
tinguished in  the  activities  of  the  college  and  seminary  while  a 
student  in  these  institutions.  Licensed  to  preach  at  Martinsburg, 
Blair  County,  and  ordained,  in  Grace  Lutheran  Church,  of  Al- 
toona.  Have  served  the  following  charges :  Pastor  St.  Paul's 
Lutheran  Church,  Leetonia,  Ohio,  and  St.  Mark's  Lutheran 
Church,  Pittsburgh.  Registrar  and  field  secretary,  Gettysburg 
College ;    vice-principal    of    Perkiomen    School,    Pennsburg,    Pa. 

M.  J.  Ross,  Tyrone,  Pa.,  was  born  at  Friedens,  Pa.,  October  t, 
1886.  His  parents,  J.  W.  and  Erna  S.  Ross.  Baptized  by  Rev. 
J.  J.  Welsh.  Confirmed  by  Dr.  H.  D.  Hoover.  Entered  school  at 
Susquehanna,  in  spring  of  1905.  Graduated  from  college  in 
1909,  and  seminary,  in  1912.  Was  licensed  by  Alleghany  Synod, 
on  October  8,  191 1,  and  ordained  by  Central  Synod  of  Pennsyl- 
vania, on  October  10,  1912.  Served  Salona  pastorate  for  about 
three  years,  and  came  to  Sinking  Valley  in  July,  191 5. 

Calvin  J.  Ringer,  Council  Bluffs,  Iowa,  son  of  Joseph 
Ringer,  was  born  near  Summit  Mills,  Somerset  County,  Pa., 
December  9,   1859.     Received  catechetical  instructions  and  con- 

829 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


firmation  at  the  Mt.  Tabor  Lutheran  Church,  Garrett,  Pa., 
1876,  by  Rev.  John  N.  Unruh,  pastor,  1879-1881 

Was  educated  at  Midland  College  and  The  Western  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  Atchison,  Kans.  W?as  ordained  by  the  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  Synod  of  Nebraska  in  1894.  Pastorates  served : 
Hardy,  Neb.,  1894-1899;  Wayne,  Neb.,  1899-1912;  Benson, 
Neb.,  1912-1915;  Council  Bluffsj  Iowa,  1915 — .  His  ancestor, 
Mathias  Ringer,  came  from  Germany  prior  to  1730,  and  settled 
near  New  Hanover,  Philadelphia  County,  Pa.  (now  Mont- 
gomery County)  ;  he  was  a  member  of  the  Council  of  the  New 
Hanover  Lutheran  Church  at  the  time,  and  with  other  members 
of  the  church  council  signed  the  call  in  1741  to  Rev.  Henry 
Melchior  Muhlenberg  to  become  their  pastor,  who  arrived  in 
1742. 

The  ancestor  on  mother's  side  (Caroline  Hostetler  Ringer), 
was  Jacob  Hostetler,  who  came  to  America  from  Switzerland, 
landing  at  Philadelphia,  Pa.,  September  1,  1736.  The  subject 
of  this  sketch  is  of  the  sixth  generation. 

E.  Victor  Roland,  present  pastor  of  Grace  Lutheran  Church, 
Butler,  Pa.,  was  born  at  Chapman's  Run,  Bedford  County,  Pa., 
December  7,  1879,  being  the  youngest  son  of  a  family  of  eleven 
children  born  to  Hezekiah  Roland  and  Nancy  Jane  Roland,  who 
resided  for  the  greater  part  of  their  married  life,  a  period  of 
sixty  years,  at  the  above  place.  The  mother  of  Rev.  Roland  is 
still  living,  being  seventy-seven  years  of  age.  His  father  died 
March  14,  1917,  at  the  ripe  age  of  eighty-seven  years.  Both  have 
been  lifelong  members  of  the  Lutheran  Church. 

It  was  during  the  ministry  of  Rev.  W.  G.  Slifer,  who  served 
the  Mt.  Pleasant  pastorate,  Bedford  County,  a  number  of  years, 
that  Rev.  Roland  decided  to  enter  the  ministry.  It  may  be  added 
here  that  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Slifer,  covering  a  period  of  four 
or  five  years,  was  most  productive  in  sending  young  men  into  the 
ministry.  During  this  time,  at  least  four  young  men  were  primed 
for  the  gospel  ministry. 

Further  facts  in  Rev.  Roland's  career  are :  Confirmed  in  Grace 
Lutheran  Church,  Mt.  Pleasant  charge,  November  20,  1898; 
entered  preparatory  department  of  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettys- 
burg, fall  of  1902 ;  entered  freshman  class  of  Pennsylvania  Col- 
830 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


lege,  in  the  fall  of  1903,  being  graduated  from  same  in  June, 
1907 ;  entered  Gettysburg  Theological  Seminary,  September, 
1907,  graduating  from  the  same,  May,  1910;  May  22,  1910,  en- 
tered upon  the  pastorate  of  Redeemer  Lutheran  Church,  Harris- 
burg,  Pa.,  where  he  had  a  successful  ministry  of  about  six  years ; 
assumed  the  pastorate  of  Grace  Lutheran  Church,  Butler,  Janu- 
ary 16,  1916,  succeeding  the  Rev.  J.  C.  Nicholas,  pastor  of  the 
First  Church,  Chambersburg. 

Rev.  Roland  was  married  to  Miss  Nellie  Zoe  Snyder,  daughter 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Baltzer  Snyder,  of  Clearville,  Pa.,  June  29, 
1910.  Two  children  add  to  the  pleasures  and  joys  of  home  life, 
Charles  Harold,  born  September  27,  191 1,  and  Jane  Elizabeth, 
born  June  7,  191 6.  These,  with  their  parents,  make  up  the  happy 
pastor's  home,  at  321  Federal  Street,  Butler,  Pa. 

Henry  Calhoun  Rose,  Lewisburg,  Pa.,  is  a  son  of  William 
Henry  and  Elizabeth  Rose.  My  mother's  maiden  name  was 
Deremer,  of  French  stock,  and  all.  of  them  were  Methodists. 
Born  in  Centerville,  down  the  Cumberland  Valley  from  Bedford, 
on  January  25,  1877,  and  was  confirmed  at  age  of  fifteen.  Passed 
teachers'  examination,  and  taught  for  four  years  in  the  country 
schools  of  Bedford  County  before  going  to  Gettysburg.  Gradu- 
ated from  college  in  1902,  seminary,  1905.  Supplied  at  Eglon, 
W.  Va.,  two  summer  vacations,  while  in  seminary,  1903  and 
1904.  Licensed  September  30,  1904,  at  Phillipsburg,  Pa.  Or- 
dained October  1,  1905,  at  Martinsburg,  Pa. 

Began  ministry  at  Saxton,  November  12,  1905.  Married  to 
Erma  Leora  Esken,  of  Berlin,  Pa.,  June  28,  1906.  Resigned  at 
Saxton,  January  9,  1910.  Accepted  Trinity  Church,  Johnstown, 
and  began  work  there  on  February  13,  1910.  Elected  at  Lewis- 
burg, June  21,  1913,  and  came  here  September  1,  1913. 

We  have  two  children,  Margaret  Elizabeth,  born  May  2,  1908, 
and  Helen  Esken,  born  September  24,  1916. 

Melanchthon  CEcolampadius  Tritle  Sahm,  Avis,  Pa., 
son  of  Rev.  Peter  Sahm,  D.D.,  and  Susannah  Tritle  Sahm.  Born 
in  Indiana,  Indiana  County.  Pa.,  on  April  11,  1853.  In  June, 
1853,  was  baptized  by  Rev.  Lloyd  Knight,  president  of  Alleghany 
Synod,  at  its  annual  session,  which  convened  in  Indiana  that  year, 

831 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


of  which  charge  the  child's  father  was  then  pastor.  This  boy 
was  also  at  this  time  made  a  life  member  of  the  Alleghany 
Synod  Education  Society,  by  the  contribution  of  $10  by  mem- 
bers of  the  congregation  and  Synod. 

He  was  confirmed  in  Christ's,  or  College  Church,  Gettysburg, 
Pa.,  by  Rev.  Charles  Hay,  D.D.,  on  Good  Friday,  April  n,  1874, 
the  twenty-first  anniversary  of  my  birth. 

Was  in  boyhood  educated  in  the  common  schools  of  the  State. 
At  fifteen,  entered  Missionary  Institute,  Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  to  pre- 
pare for  college.  At  sixteen  years,  entered  Pennsylvania  College, 
Gettysburg,  graduating  in  the  class  of  1874. 

Taught  public  school  for  several  years,  then  entered  upon  his 
theological  studies  at  Selinsgrove,  under  Dr.  Henry  Ziegler,  com- 
pleting his  course  in  1879. 

Ordained  at  the  session  of  Alleghany  Synod,  which  convened 
at  Berlin,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  September,  1880. 

Charges  served :  Cookport,  Pa. ;  Fay,  Pa. ;  Boalsburg,  Pa. ; 
Espy,  Pa. ;  Wilmore,  Pa.,  and  New  Millport,,  Pa. 

Married  in  1878,  to  Miss  Flora  B.  Albert,  of  New  Berlin,  Pa. 
Family  consists  of  three  sons,  their  wives,  three  grandsons  and 
five  granddaughters.    At  present  postmaster  at  Avis,  Pa. 

Franz  Sigel  Schultz,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  born 
in  Newry,  Blair  County,  Pa.,  on  the  third  day  of  June,  1862. 
His  parents  dedicated  him  to  God,  in  holy  baptism,  in  early  child- 
hood. He  was  catechized  by  Rev.  S.  McHenry,  and  confirmed 
in  the  Lutheran  Church  on  January  28,  1877.  I*1  l&79>  ne  located 
in  Altoona,  having  procured  a  position  in  the  machine  shops  of 
the  Pennsylvania  Railroad.  He  then  transferred  his  church 
membership  to  the  First  Lutheran  Church,  Rev.  Henry  Baker, 
pastor.  He  became  active  in  the  Young  Men's  Christian  Associ- 
ation of  the  city  and  in  the  young  people's  work  of  the  church. 
In  the  fall  of  1884,  he  entered  the  preparatory  department  of 
Missionary  Institute,  Selinsgrove,  and  graduated  in  the  class  of 
1888.  The  same  fall,  he  entered  the  junior  class  of  Pennsyl- 
vania College,  Gettysburg,  and  graduated  in  the  class  of  1890, 
and  from  the  Theological  Seminary  in   1893. 

He  was  licensed  by  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  1892,  at  Hollidays- 
burg,  and  ordained  at  Huntingdon,  on  the  tenth  day  of  Sep- 
832 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


tember,  1893.  On  July  I,  1893,  he  took  charge  of  the  Morrell- 
ville  Mission,  as  its  first  pastor.  The  mission  was  composed  of 
three  congregations,  Morrellville  (now  in  Johnstown),  New 
Florence,  in  Westmoreland  County,  and  Germany,  in  Indiana 
County.  After  serving  this  charge  for  four  years,  the  Morrell- 
ville Mission  demanded  the  entire  time  of  the  pastor,  so  the 
other  two  points  were  dismissed  back  to  the  Pittsburgh  Synod. 
He  continued  at  Morrellville  until  December  31,  1908.  During 
his  pastorate,  the  present  brick  church  was  built  and  paid  for, 
the  mission  became  self-supporting  and  the  membership  increased 
from  14  to  about  200. 

He  moved  to  Pine  Grove  Mills,  in  Center  County,  January  1, 
1909,  and  remained  a  little  more  than  three  years,  and  on  No- 
vember 1,  1912,  he  accepted  a  call  to  the  Summerhill  charge,  and 
came  back  to  the  Synod  of  his  first  love,  to  which  he  has  now 
rendered  more  than  twenty  years  of  service. 

George  Francis  Schaeffer,  bom  January  3,  1830,  at  Carmel 
(now  Aurora),  W.  Va.  His  parents  were  Daniel  and  Elizabeth 
Schaeffer.  Baptized  when  a  child  by  "Old  Father"  Heyer,  first 
Lutheran  missionary  to  India.  Was  an  apprentice  under  Arthur 
McKinley  (a  saddler),  in  Pennsylvania,  when  in  the  "teens." 
Then  came  home  and  prepared  himself,  and  taught  school  awhile, 
but  soon  felt  called  to  preach,  and  went  to  Pennsylvania  College. 
Graduated  in  1857;  then  taught  in  Lutherville  Seminary,  Md. ; 
also  Mt.  Pleasant  Seminary,  N.  C,  in  i860.  Returned  to  Somer- 
set, Pa.,  as  principal  in  school.  Ordained  in  1863.  Served 
churches  in  Newport,  New  Bloomfield,  Apollo,  Pa.  Returned 
to  North  Carolina  in  1882 ;  president  of  North  Carolina  College 
until  1885.  Then  lived  in  Georgia  until  1903,  when  he  came  to 
Spartanburg,  S.  C.  Superintended  farm  until  his  death,  Sep- 
tember 27,  1916. 

Married  Martha  J.  Rupley,  1857;  Martha  A.  Rooks,  1885; 
Laura  A.  McDowell,  1903,  who,  with  two  sons,  by  first  wife, 
survive  him.  Sons,  S.  Rupley  Schaeffer,  Denver,  Colo. ;  S. 
Samuel  Schaeffer,  Campton,  Ga. 

He  was  a  great  educator.  He  was  "the  scholar"  of  the  place 
where  he  lived.  His  Christian  character  was  unquestioned — 
"a  strong  preacher  of  the  word,  and  faithful  pastor." 

833 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


He  was  a  member  of  North  Carolina  Synod  from  1883  to  time 
of  his  death,  and  the  minutes  just  sent  me,  has  a  page  to  his 
memory  (In  Memoriam).  He  attended  Synod  last  in  1914,  at 
China  Grove,  N.  C,  and  desired  so  much  to  go  to  Synod  meeting 
at  Concord,  N.  C,  in  May,  1916,  but  was  then  growing  more 
feeble.  He  was  pastor  at  Concord  in  1884,  when  his  two  daugh- 
ters, teachers  in  the  college,  died,  and  are  buried  at  Concord. 
He  was  loved  by  all,  white  and  negroes  alike. — Sketch  by  Mrs. 
Laura  A.  Schacffer,  Spartanburg,  S.  C. 

September,  1917. 

W.  H.  Settlemyer,  A.M.,  Middletown,  Md.  I  was  born  on 
a  farm  one  mile  north  of  Wilmore,  Pa.,  on  March  8,  1838.  My 
father's  name  was  George,  and  my  mother  was  Susanna  (Shine- 
felt)  Settlemyer.  I  worked  with  my  father  on  the  farm  until 
I  went  to  school.  After  the  district  school  I  attended  a  term 
under  Rev.  L.  J.  Bell,  at  Johnstown,  and  subsequently  a  term 
under  Rev.  G.  F.  Schaeffer,  at  Somerset.  Then  taught  a  winter 
in  a  district  school,  which  made  me  hungry  for  a  larger  educa- 
tion. 

My  health  being  delicate,  I  chose  Wittenberg  College,  Spring- 
field, Ohio,  to  secure  a  change  of  climate  to  better  my  health. 
Graduated  in  a  class  of  sixteen  in  1866.  Entered  Theological 
Seminary  at  Gettysburg  in  the  first  class  taking  a  three  years' 
course,  and  graduated  in  1869.  Was  licensed  to  preach  the 
gospel  at  Bedford,  Pa.,  in  1869. 

Returned  from  Bedford  to  find  that  a  beloved  sister  had  departed 
this  life  from  typhoid  fever.  Remained  at  home  for  a  season  be- 
cause of  the  serious  illness  of  mother  and  another  and  only  re- 
maining sister  at  home. 

Was  ordained  by  the  Alleghany  Synod  at  Johnstown,  Pa., 
September,  1870.  In  1870  took  charge  of  the  churches  at  North 
Liberty  and  Banner  Valley  (Ely),  Iowa.  In  1873,  owing  to  the 
severity  of  the  winters,  I  resigned  and  returned  to  my  father's 
home  in  Wilmore.  Providential  circumstances  constrained  me, 
after  awhile,  to  accept  the  charge  at  Wilmore.  In  May,  1878, 
I  accepted  a  call  to  Jefferson,  Md.,  and  continued  to  May,  1886. 
Then  took  charge  in  Staunton,  Va.,  and  remained  there  fifteen 
months.  In  1888  took  charge  of  Rockwood,  Pa.,  and  served  them 
834 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


to  January  i,  1893,  when  I  accepted  a  call  to  Bedford,  Pa.,  to 
serve  the  Friends  Cove  Charge.  In  July,  1896,  went  to  Idaville, 
Pa.,  pastorate,  and  resigned  July,  1899. 

Remained  for  over  a  year  with  wife's  sister  and  brother  to 
care  for  them  in  their  last  years  of  life,  then  spent  a  year,  1901-2, 
in  California  to  recuperate  our  health ;  returned  and  built  a 
home  in  Middletown,  Md.  Have  since  aided  our  brethren  by 
supply  work. 

On  September  2j,  1876,  I  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss  Mar- 
garet Beckwith,  of  Middletown,  Md.,  who  has  been  a  very  de- 
cided success  as  a  pastor's  wife,  social,  economical,  a  genuine 
home-maker,  and  ever  lending  inspiration  to  my  work.  The  home 
is  made  especially  attractive  by  reason  of  her  superior  talent  as  a 
portrait  and  landscape  painter. 

As  Secretary  of  the  Alleghany  Synod  and  a  member  of  the 
Constitutional  Revising  Committee,  I  originated  the  custom  of 
recognizing  a  certified  copy  of  the  printed  Minutes  as  the  official 
copy,  instead  of  entering  the  whole  of  the  minutes  in  the  procotol. 
I  also  introduced  the  custom  of  electing  the  officers  of  the  Synod 
at  the  close  of  the  session,  instead  of  at  the  opening  of  the  session. 

God  blessed  me  in  many  ways  in  my  work,  and  secured  me 
many  fast  friends. 

Rendering  conscientiously  the  tenth  of  our  income  (an  aver- 
age salary  of  less  than  $650)  to  the  Lord's  work,  we  never  once 
lacked  money  to  pay  for  all  necessary  current  expenses.  Having 
been  handicapped  through  my  active  ministerial  life  with  in- 
different health,  I  am  now  enjoying  renewed  health  and  strength 
in  this  period  of  my  retired  life,  for  which  I  am  truly  grateful. 

Middletown,  Md.,  October  12,   1917. 

David  Luther  Shaffer,  Homestead,  Pa.,  son  of  Adam  B. 
Shaffer  and  Eliza  Jane  Shaffer,  was  born  at  Jenner  Cross  Roads, 
Somerset  County,  on  August  9,  1886,  the  tenth  in  a  family  of 
eleven  children.  Was  confirmed  in  the  Jennertown  Lutheran 
Church.  A  son  of  the  soil,  attended  the  rural  school,  and  later 
taught  three  terms  in  native  township  of  Jenner.  Was  graduated 
from  Gettysburg  Academy;  College,  1913,  and  Theological 
Seminary.  Ordained  into  Christian  ministry  at  Pittsburgh,  Oc- 
tober,   1916.     Is   serving  first  charge,   Homestead,   May,    1916. 

835 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Was  married  in  June,  1916,  to  Miss  Helen  Edna  Rupp,  of 
Gettysburg,  Pa.     One  son,  Paul  Luther,  born  March  29,  19 17. 

Samuel  A.  Shaulis,  Somerset,  Pa.,  son  of  Frederick  W.  and 
Mary  E.  Shaulis,  was  born  May  31,  1862,  near  Sipesville,  Somer- 
set County,  Pa.  Confirmed  March  31,  1877,  by  the  Rev.  L.  L. 
Sieber,  pastor  of  Bakersville  Lutheran  Church.  Remained  with 
father,  on  the  farm,  laboring,  attending  and  teaching  public 
school.  Also  attended  school  at  Tiffin,  Ohio,  and  Gettysburg, 
Pa.,  graduating  from  Gettysburg  Seminary,  June,  1893. 

Ordained  at  St.  James'  Lutheran  Church,  Huntingdon,  Pa., 
September,  1893.  Called  to  serve  Cassville  charge,  consisting 
of  Cassville,  Hawns  and  Grafton  Churches,  July  1,  1893  to  1897; 
also  New  Florence  charge,  Westmoreland  County,  Pa.,  1897  to 
1907,  consisting  of  New  Florence  and  Germany.  Erected  a  new 
parsonage ;  organized  Garfield  and  Lockport  congregations,  and 
erected  new  edifices  at  each  place. 

In  1907,  accepted  a  call  to  Grace  Chapel  charge,  Indiana 
County,  Pa.  After  enjoying  a  very  fruitful  and  blessed  work 
for  the  Master,  on  account  of  physical  weakness,  moved  to 
father's  farm,  April  1,  1909,  residing  there  for  seven  years;  then 
moved  to   Somerset,   Pa. 

In  1890,  July  10,  Mary  Elizabeth  Miller,  daughter  of  Henry 
F.  and  Catharine  Miller,  and  Rev.  S.  A.  Shaulis  were  united  in 
holy  matrimony  by  Rev.  Edmund  E.  Manges,  of  Lawrenceville, 
Pa.,  to  which  union  there  were  born  Roy  H.,  Earl  F.  and  Mary  E. 
Shaulis  and  Samuel  S.  Shaulis. 

David  H.  Shultz,  oldest  son  of  John  A.  and  Sarah  Beaver 
Shultz,  was  born  at  Marklesburg,  Pa.,  March  9,  1843.  He 
attended  school  until  sixteen  years  old,  and  then  began  teaching. 
At  the  age  of  sixteen,  he  was  converted  and  confirmed  at 
Marklesburg,  under  the  pastoral  care  of  Rev.  William  Jordan 
Bechtel.  He  finished  an  academic  course  at  Cassville,  Pa.,  and 
a  normal  training  course  at  Kishacoquillas,  Pa. ;  taught  in  the 
public  schools  of  Belleville,  Mount  Union  Academy  and  the  gov- 
ernment schools  of  Cassville  and  Bristol  City,  Pa.  Took  his  theo- 
logical course  at  Juniata  University ;  was  ordained  in  the  Susque- 
hanna Synod,  June  30,  1876. 
836 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


He  accepted  a  call  to  the  Salem  pastorate,  in  northern  Illinois ; 
was  called  to  a  mission  church  at  Lanark  City,  111.,  under  the 
direction  of  the  Northern  Illinois  Synod.  On  account  of  the  fail- 
ing health  of  his  wife,  Sarah  Aiken,  to  whom  he  was  married 
on  the  fifth  day  of  October,  1876,  he  moved,  in  the  winter  of 
1880-1881,  to  Rising  City,  Neb.,  where  she  died,  October  9,  1881. 

He  began  missionary  work  at  Rising  City,  Cresswell,  Benedict 
and  other  promising  points,  and  was  instrumental  in  organizing 
churches  at  Rising  City,  Benedict,  Surprise  and  David  City. 

On  the  thirtieth  day  of  June.  1885,  he  was  married  to  Alice 
Crownover,  and  in  the  fall  of  1886,  moved  to  the  western  part 
of  the  State,  where  he  organized  the  church  at  Potter,  Neb.,  and 
served  this  pastorate  until  failing  sight  compelled  him  to  retire 
from  the  active  ministry.  He  has  been  in  connection  with  the 
Rocky  Mountain  Synod  from  its  beginning  to  the  present  time. 
The  death  of  his  wife  occurred  at  Potter,  March  24,  1907.  He 
resided  at  Potter  until  about  four  years  ago,  when  he  moved  to 
Osceola,  Neb.,  his  present  residence. 

Luther  T.  Snyder,  son  of  Moses  M.  and  Adaline  Snyder, 
was  born  at  New  Lexington,  Pa.,  January  9,  1861.  He  became 
a  member  of  Messiah  congregation  in  early  life,  from  which 
church  he  never  removed  his  membership.  He  took  his  prepara- 
tory course  for  college  at  Missionary  Institute,  now  Susquehanna 
University,  and  graduated  at  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg, 
Pa.,  in  1890,  and  three  years  later,  from  the  seminary  there.  His 
only  charge  was  the  Upper  Strasburg  pastorate,  where  he  labored 
until  failing  health  compelled  him  to  relinquish  his  work,  after 
which  he  went  home  to  his  parents,  at  New  Lexington,  where  he 
died,  November  22,  1904,  aged  forty-three  years,  ten  months  and 
thirteen  days. 

W.  M.  Spangler,  Hampstead,  Md.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch, 
was  born  on  a  farm  near  Friedens,  Somerset  County,  Pa.,  on 
February  2,  1849.  He  is  the  son  of  Michael  and  Hannah 
Spangler.  His  great-grandfather  on  his  father's  side  came  from 
Wittenberg,  Germany,  and  his  grandfather  on  his  mother's  side 
was  of  Scotch-Irish  extraction.  He  was  reared  to  farm  life,  in 
which  his  early  years  were  spent.    At  the  age  of  six  years  began 

837 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


his  initiation  into  school-life.  It  was  a  country  school  he  at- 
tended about  a  mile  and  a  half  from  his  father's  farm.  The 
school-house  was  built  of  hewed  logs,  and  was  one  among  the 
first  in  the  county,  and  was,  therefore,  quite  old.  The  furniture 
was  among  the  simplest.  A  ten-plate  iron  stove  stood  in  the 
center  of  the  room.  Large  chunks  of  wood  were  used  in  it  to 
keep  the  room  warm.  The  benches  were  made  of  slabs.  The 
desks  were  made  of  boards  which  were  hand-planed  and  nailed 
on  with  wooden  pins  driven  into  the  logs  along  the  sides  and 
ends  of  the  building.  This  old  log  school-house,  however,  gave 
way  to  a  better  and  more  modern  building  in  the  course  of  a 
few  years.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  he  attended  a  term  of  normal 
school  of  ten  weeks  at  Stoyestown,  Pa.  Attending  a  second 
term  of  normal  school  at  the  same  place  the  year  following,  he 
taught  his  first  term  of  public  school  at  the  age  of  eighteen.  He 
taught  public  school  during  four  winter  terms,  using  the  summer 
vacations  in  preparation  for  better  work  by  attending  two  terms 
of  normal  school  of  ten  weeks  each  at  Stoyestown,  Pa.,  and 
two  terms  of  select  school  of  ten  weeks  each  in  the  academy  at 
Somerset,  Pa.  In  the  spring  of  1870  he  matriculated  as  a  student 
of  Missionary  Institute  at  Selinsgrove,  Pa.,  now  known  as  Sus- 
quehanna University.  He  completed  his  classical  course  at  the 
commencement  of  1874.  He  then  entered  the  Theological  Semi- 
nary at  Gettysburg,  where  he  received  his  theological  training. 
He  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  Alleghany  Synod  at  its 
meeting  in  Altoona  in  1876.  He  was  ordained  to  the  gospel 
ministry  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  by  the  same  Synod 
at  its  meeting  in  Trinity  Lutheran  Church  of  Somerset,  Pa., 
in  September,  1877.  He  served  charges  respectively  at  Jenners, 
Somerset  County,  Pa. ;  Friends'  Cove,  Bedford  County,  Pa. ; 
Accident,  Garrett  County,  Md. ;  Glasgow,  Cambria  County,  Pa. ; 
Salona,  Clinton  County,  Pa. ;  Williamsburg,  Blair  County,  Pa. ; 
Beaver  Springs,  Snyder  County,  Pa. ;  Seven  Valleys,  York 
County,  Pa. ;  New  Florence,  Westmoreland  County,  Pa. ;  Kimber- 
ton,  Chester  County,  Pa.,  and  the  Hampstead  Charge,  Hampstead, 
Md.  His  Alma  Mater  conferred  upon  him  the  degree  of  A.M. 
in  July,  1908.  He  was  married  to  Sarah  Boucher,  youngest 
daughter  of  John  and  Johanna  Boucher,  of  New  Lexington,  Som- 
erset County,  Pa.,  on  September  10,  1874.  To  this  union  were 
838 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


born    seven    children — five    sons    and    two    daughters — all    still 
living. 

N.  B. — Was  catechised  by  Rev.  John  Tomlinson,  and  con- 
firmed at  the  age  of  fourteen  in  the  Lutheran  church  at  Friedens, 
Pa. 

William  Rufus  Stahl,  son  of  John  and  Adaline  Stahl,  was 
born  near  Pine  Hill,  Somerset  County,  August  12,  1868,  and  died 
at  Shanksville,  in  the  same  county,  October  11,  1905,  of  typhoid 
fever.  He  was  educated  in  the  common  schools  and  the  institu- 
tions at  Gettysburg,  graduating  from  the  seminary  in  1900.  He 
was  pastor  of  the  Liverpool  charge,  Perry  County,  1900-1904,  and 
of  the  Shanksville  charge,  1904-1905.  Reared  on  the  farm,  he 
always  manifested  a  retiring  disposition,  but  possessed  sterling 
qualities,  which  won  him  many  friends.  The  new  church  in  his 
second  charge  is  a  fitting  monument  to  his  work  there.  His  wife, 
Miss  Tholan,  of  Mervin,  Pa,  with  a  daughter,  survived. 

Samuel  Stouffer,  born  in  Hollidaysburg,  Pa.,  November  17, 
1842.  Parents,  Jonathan  and  Mary  M.  Stouffer.  Educated  at 
Gettysburg.  My  course  there  was  broken  by  my  enlistment; 
served  in  Battery  C,  First  Reserves,  Light  Artillery. 

Served  in  the  following  pastorates :  Luthersburg,  two  years ; 
West  Sunbury,  four  years;  Licking,  four  years;  Piedmont, 
W.  Va.,  two  years;  Jenners,  five  years;  Donegal,  seven  years; 
German  Township,  Fayette  County,  Pa.,  eleven  years ;  Union- 
ville,  Ontario,  four  years;  Hampstead,  Md.,  two  years;  Accident, 
Md.,  two  years.  Have  been  living  in  Somerset,  retired,  the  last 
seven  years. 

My  first  wife  was  Miss  E.  A.  Wick,  born  in  Butler  County, 
Pa. ;  died  at  Donegal.  My  second  wife,  Miss  Edith  M.  Morrison, 
born  in  Somerset  County.  Have  four  children  living  and  three 
dead.  Edgar  H.,  John  M.  and  Mary  Alice  live  in  Somerset,  Pa. ; 
William  lives  at  Springdale,  Pa. 

Several  of  these  charges  were  reorganized  by  me — I  only 
served  them  until  I  could  secure  them  a  regular  pastorate.  They 
had,  in  a  measure,  broken  up  during  the  Civil  War. 

Jacob  Hiram  Straw  was  born  at  Ansonville,  Clearfield 
County,  Pa.,  in  1871,  a  son  of  Arthur  Bell  and  Sarah  M.  Straw, 

839 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


members  of  the  Baptist  Church.  His  mother  having  died  when 
he  was  two  years  old,  he  was  cared  for  by  his  maternal  grand- 
parents, Jacob  and  Sarah  Arnold,  of  New  Millport,  Pa.,  who 
were  Lutherans.  He  was  received  as  a  member,  January  3, 
1886,  by  baptism.  He  took  a  course  at  Lock  Haven  State  Nor- 
mal School,  and  taught  school.  In  1895,  he  entered  college  at 
Gettysburg,  and  in  1899,  the  seminary.  Upon  his  graduation, 
1902,  he  went  to  our  Muhlenberg  Mission,  Africa,  returning  in 
1904.  He  served  as  pastor,  the  North  Baltimore,  Ohio,  charge, 
1905-1907;  Trenton,  N.  J.,  1907-1909.     He  returned  to  Africa  in 


REV.    J.    H.    STRAW 

1909,  and  labored  faithfully  until  his  death,  April  20,  1913.  He 
was  married  to  Miss  Nellie  Cashman,  Gettysburg,  now  Mrs.  Rev. 
F.  S.  Shultz,  of  Summerhill,  Pa.  One  daughter,  Ruth,  also  sur- 
vives. 

Charles  L.  Streamer.  Parents,  Christian  Streamer,  native 
of  Prussia,  and  Elizabeth  Knoephler,  York,  Pa.  Born  Williams- 
burg, Pa.,  December  22,  1828.  Attended  public  schools;  learned 
the  trade  of  a  tinner,  and  was  a  first-class  mechanic ;  followed 
the  business  at  Marklesburg,  Pa.,  and  Williamsburg,  Pa.  Studied 
840 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


for  the  ministry,  with  Father  P.  Sahm,  pastor  at  Indiana,  Pa. 
Ordained  to  the  Gospel  Ministry  by  Alleghany  Synod,  1858. 

Served  the  following  charges:  Smicksburg,  1858-1869  and 
1885-1897  (twenty-three  years  in  all)  ;  Martinsburg,  Pa.,  1869- 
1875;  Blairsville,  1875-1878;  West  Sunbury,  Pa.,  and  North 
Washington,  1878-1885;  Hempfield,  Westmoreland  County, 
1897-1903.  Retiring  for  a  time,  because  of  ill  health,  having 
been,  for  fifteen  weeks,  in  bed  with  typhoid  fever,  he  removed 
to  Phillipsburg.  While  a  resident  there,  he  supplied  that  congre- 
gation during  two  vacant  periods,  and  frequently  preached  for 
other  congregations.  He  was  a  supply  at  the  time  of  his  death, 
January  15,  1908.  His  active  ministry  covered  a  period  of  nearly 
fifty  years.  He  was  a  tireless  worker,  and  vacations  to  him  were 
an  unknown  thing.  Most  of  his  ministry  was  spent  in  Alleghany 
Synod,  and  the  remainder  in  Pittsburgh  Synod.  For  several 
terms  he  was  president  in  each.  He  was  known  in  both  Synods 
as  a  master  parliamentarian,  and  as  a  theologian,  took  first  rank. 
He  was  a  master  of  English,  and  was  able  to  present  the  deepest 
doctrinal  truths  in  the  language  of  every-day  folks.  He  was 
called  by  many  of  his  brethren,  "He  of  the  golden  tongue." 
Others  spoke  of  him  as  "Always  being  found  on  the  side  of  the 
'under  dog.'  "  These  accurately  describe  the  man.  He  never 
lacked  for  a  word  to  express  his  meaning.  He  was  always  a 
champion  of  the  downtrodden.  He  was,  indeed,  a  worthy  disciple 
of  his  Lord. — SketcJi  by  his  son,  Rev.  W.  A.  H.  S. 

Charles  R.  Streamer,  Liberty,  Pa.,  a  son  of  Rev.  C.  L. 
Streamer,  for  many  years  a  member  of  this  Synod,  was  born  at 
Martinsburg,  Blair  County,  April  27,  1871,  in  the  present 
Lutheran  parsonage,  erected  during  his  father's  pastorate  there 
of  eight  years.  At  an  early  age,  with  the  family,  he  removed  to 
Blairsville  and  other  points  in  the  Pittsburgh  Synod,  and  finally 
to  Greensburg,  from  which  place  this  son  entered  the  Gospel 
Ministry.  While  a  resident  at  Smicksburg,  after  he  had  finished 
an  academic  course,  he  went  to  Punxsutawney  to  learn  the  trade 
of  printing  in  the  News  office.  After  two  years,  from  "printer's 
devil"  to  foreman,  he  went  to  Selinsgrove,  where  he  graduated 
from  the  Missionary  Institute  in  the  class  of  1894.  From  here 
he  went  to  Springfield,  and  two  years  later,  graduated  from  Wit- 

841 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


tenberg  College,  in  the  class  of  1896;  then  three  years  later,  from 
our  Theological  Seminary,  at  Gettysburg,  in  the  class  of  1899. 
During  his  Summer  and  Christmas  vacations,  he  canvassed  for 
church  papers,  and  the  last  vacation  periods  of  his  seminary  days 
he  was  manager  of  the  student  missionary  campaign,  under  our 
Board  of  Foreign  Missions.  He  was  ordained  at  the  meeting  of 
the  Pittsburgh  Synod,  at  Wheeling,  in  1899,  and  took  charge  of 
St.  Paul's  Church,  Lionville,  soon  after,  where  he  remained  as 
pastor  for  five  years,  also  serving  as  supply  pastor  at  St.  Paul's, 
Camden,  N.  J.,  until  called  as  managing  editor  of  The  Lutheran 
Evangelist,  in  1904.  He  remained  in  Dayton,  Ohio,  for  seven 
years,  in  connection  with  church  paper  work,  until  given  a  call 
to  the  Martinsburg  charge,  his  birthplace,  where  he  remained  for 
four  years  as  pastor,  doing  two  men's  work.  Recognizing  a 
necessity  for  a  division  of  the  Bedford  County  churches  from  the 
Martinsburg  Church,  he  resigned,  to  take  charge  of  churches  in 
Liberty  Valley,  Pa.,  where  he  has  been  the  successful  pastor  of  an 
important  work  for  three  years.  In  October,  1900,  he  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Phipps,  a  member  of  his  first  church, 
in  Chester  County.  Their  union  has  been  blessed  with  four 
children,  all  of  whom  survive:  Phoebe,  aged  fifteen;  Paul, 
twelve;  Charles  T.,  eight  (who  is  also  to  be  a  minister),  and 
Mary  Elizabeth,  aged  two  years,  respectively. 

William  A.  H.  Streamer,  Saxton,  Pa.,  first  saw  the  light  of 
day  in  Smicksburg,  Pa.,  September  12,  1862.  He  was  a  son  of 
Rev.  Charles  L.  and  Sarah  L.  Robinson  Streamer.  The  public 
schools  of  Martinsburg  and  Blairsville,  Pa.,  furnished  the  basis 
of  his  education,  and  the  normal  academies  at  West  Sunbury 
and  North  Washington,  Pa.,  provided  such  finishing  touches  as 
were  possible  to  him  in  those  days.  The  years  1879  to  1909  were 
spent,  mostly,  behind  the  counter,  in  mercantile  pursuits,  broken 
by  two  terms  of  school  teaching,  1884,  at  North  Washington,  Pa.; 
1885,  at  Smicksburg,  Pa.  In  1886,  he  removed  to  Punxsutawney, 
Pa.,  and  in  1887,  July  11,  was  married  to  Miss  Sallie  E.  Hughes, 
of  that  place,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Alexander  G.  Hughes. 
Four  children,  three  sons  and  a  daughter,  have  come  to  bless 
their  home.  Two  of  them,  the  daughter,  Elizabeth,  and  Alfred, 
the  youngest  son,  remain  at  home.  Two  have  taken  their  places 
842 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


as  men  in  the  world  of  men,  the  oldest,  Hayden,  a  pharmacist,  in 
West  Philadelphia,  Pa.,  and  Joseph,  the  second  son,  in  the  ambu- 
lance service  of  his  country's  army.  September,  1909,  Mr. 
Streamer  entered  the  department  of  theology,  Susquehanna  Uni- 
versity, graduating  in  19 12.  He  was  licensed  to  preach,  at 
Everett,  Pa.,  by  Alleghany  Synod,  and  ordained  to  the  Gospel 
Ministry  the  following  year,  1912,  in  Trinity  Lutheran  Church, 
Johnstown,  Pa.  September  1,  1912,  he  was  called  to  the  Markles- 
burg-Saxton  pastorate,  and  still  remains  in  his  first  field. 

David  Stufft  was  born  near  Connor  Post  Office,  Somerset 
County,  Pa.,  September  14,  1828,  where  he  attended  public 
school.  Later  he  moved  to  Friedens,  where  he  enjoyed  many 
pleasant  years. 

He  received  license  to  preach  from  Alleghany  Synod,  in  1858, 
and  was  ordained,  1861.  His  charges  were  Wills  Creek,  seven 
churches;  Scalp  Level,  1869-1882.  Having  resigned,  he  took  up 
his  residence  here.  At  times  he  taught  school,  was  a  justice  of 
the  peace,  surveyor,  and  dentist,  his  frail  health  not  permitting 
his  re-entering  the  ministry.  His  wife,  Miss  Sarah  Foust,  died 
in  1893.  Six  children  were  born  to  them.  His  death  occurred 
October  11,  1896,  with  interment  at  Scalp  Level. 

Samuel  Japheth  Taylor.  Born  at  Newberg,  Huntingdon 
County,  Pa.  Parents,  Ephraim  and  Mary  E.  (Focht)  Taylor. 
Lived  with  parents  on  a  farm  until  1868,  when  the  family  moved 
to  Altoona,  Pa.,  where  clerked  in  grocery  store  1869-70.  Learned 
telegraphy  and  entered  the  service  of  the  Pennsylvania  Railroad 
in  1870,  and  remained  with  the  railroad  as  operator  and  ticket 
agent  until  December  31,  1876.  January,  1877,  entered  the 
Preparatory  School  of  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  Pa., 
and  graduated  with  the  class  of  1881,  and  from  the  Theological 
Seminary  with  the  class  of  1884.  Was  licensed  to  preach  by  the 
East  Pennsylvania  Synod  at  Germantown  in  1883,  and  ordained 
by  Alleghany  Synod  at  Stoyestown,  Pa.,  in  1884.  Have  served 
in  the  order  named  the  following  pastorates :  Addison,  Williams- 
burg, Lock  Haven,  Berlin,  Carey,  Ohio ;  Selinsgrove  and  Juniata, 
Pa.,  since  191 1. 

843 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


William  Tedrow,  son  of  Jonas  and  Catherine  Tedrow,  was 
born  in  Milford  Township,  Somerset  County,  Pa.  He  was  a 
member  of  Messiah  congregation.  He  graduated  at  Mt.  Union 
College  in  1878,  and  at  the  Lutheran  Seminary,  in  Springfield, 
Ohio,  in  1880.  He  served  the  following  charges:  Shanesville, 
Ohio,  1880-1884;  Constantine,  Mich.,  1884-1893;  Ann  Arbor, 
Mich.,  1893-1904;  Kalamazoo,  Mich.,  1904-1908.  More  than 
half  of  Rev.  Tedrow's  ministry  was  spent  in  Home  Mission  fields. 
He  died  in  Kalamazoo,  Mich.,  February  10,  191 1,  aged  fifty- 
seven  years,  six  months  and  seven  days. 

Charles  Henry  Tilp,  Cleveland,  Ohio,  son  of  George  and 
Julia  (Schissler)  Tilp,  was  born  at  Garrett,  Pa.,  May  24,  1873. 
His  desire  to  be  a  minister  was  encouraged  by  his  father  and  by 
his  pastor,  Rev.  M.  L.  Young,  Ph.D.,  who  catechized  and  con- 
firmed him  at  Garrett,  in  1884. 

Clerked  in  father's  store,  and  managed  same  after  father's 
death.  Removed  to  Meyersdale,  and  served  as  bookkeeper. 
Attended  public  schools,  Meyersdale  Academy  and  Stevens  Hall ; 
entered  Pennsylvania  College,  in  1894,  graduating  with  second 
honor,  in  1898.  Graduated  from  the  Gettysburg  Theological 
Seminary  in  1901,  with  B.D.  degree. 

Licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  the  Alleghany  Synod,  in  1900, 
and  ordained  by  the  same  Synod,  September  29,  1901,  at  Berlin, 
Pa.  Served  the  following  churches :  Fort  Washington,  Pa. ; 
Murphysboro,  111. ;  Kittanning,  Pa.,  and  Lakewood,  Cleveland, 
Ohio. 

Married  Miss  Emily  J.  Shipley,  of  Meyersdale,  August  29, 
1901.    They  have  three  children,  Julia,  Charles  H.,  Jr.,  and  Mary. 

Student  solicitor  for  Pennsylvania  College  in  1900;  secretary 
Pennsylvania  Intercollegiate  Oratorical  Union,  assistant  editor 
college  publications.  Delegate  to  General  Synod,  1909  and  1915; 
president  and  secretary  Southern  Illinois  Synod  and  Conference ; 
president,  secretary  and  treasurer  Eastern  Conference,  Pitts- 
bugh  Synod.  One  of  first  scholars  in  the  Garrett  Sunday  School, 
organized  by  his  father  and  Mr.  Frank  Enos. 

Victor  George  Augustine  Tressler,  D.D.,  Ph.D.,  born  April 
10,  1865,  near  Somerfield,  Somerset  County.  Pa.,  son  of  Rev. 
844 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


John  William  and  Mrs.  Carrie  Augustine  Tressler.  Confirmed 
in  the  Addison  Lutheran  Church,  at  an  early  age.  Graduated  at 
Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  1886,  summa  cum  laude ; 
student  of  law,  Chicago,  1887-1888;  B.D.,  McCormick  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  1891 ;  corresponding  student  of  Hebrew,  Chi- 
cago University,  1896;  student,  Leipsic  University,  1897-1900; 
received  there,  Ph.D.,  magna  cum  laude,  1900;  Berlin  Uni- 
versity, 1 901 ;  student  British  Museum,  London,  summer  1900; 
University  of  Paris,  Fall  semester  1901. 

Extensive  traveler  in  Europe  and  Asia ;  ordained  to  the  Gospel 
Ministry,  1902,  by  California  Synod;  D.D.  from  Susquehanna 
University,  1905;  pastor  of  Grace  Lutheran  Church,  San  Jose, 
Cal.,  1891-1898;  professor  philosophy,  Ansgar  College,  .1901- 
1902;  professor  Greek,  Wittenberg  College,  1902-1905;  professor 
New  Testament  philology  and  criticism,  1905  ;  president  General 
Synod,  1917    Married  Mary  Baugher  Gotwald,  1906. 

Francis  Heyer  Weaver,  born  May  20,  1844,  in  Newry,  Pa., 
of  George  and  Lovina  Fetters  Weaver.  Baptized,  catechized 
and  confirmed  in  St.  Paul's  Lutheran  Church,  Newry.  Plow 
boy.  Enlisted  October  10,  1861 ;  discharged  October  17,  1864; 
was  struck  by  missiles  twenty-two  times  during  Civil  War. 
Graduate  of  Pennsylvania  College,  Gettysburg,  class  of  1873,  and 
of  seminary,  1876.  Carried  into  effect  the  Felix  Brunot  treaty 
with  the  Southern  Ute  Indians,  1877  and  1878,  after  having  been 
pastor  at  Grafton,  W.  Va.,  1876  and  1877.  Chaplain  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, June  16,  1880.  Retired  August  16,  1897.  Major  retired, 
April  23,  1904,  by  special  act  of  Congress.  Married  to  Katharine 
M.  Schneider,  of  Washington,  D.  C,  November  30,  1876. 

Robert  Weidensall.  Alleghany  Synod  has  a  special  interest 
in  Robert  Weidensall.  Not  only  may  she  claim  credit  for  the 
development  of  this  devoted  servant  of  God  and  man — a  debt 
which  he  gladly  acknowledges — but,  through  the  efforts  of  this 
most  eminent  of  her  sons,  her  influence  has  been  more  widely 
and  powerfully  exerted  than  that  of  most  Synods  in  the  Lutheran 
Church. 

Robert  Weidensall,  the  third  son  of  Jacob  and  Nancy  Weid- 
ensall, was  born  in  Hollidaysburg,  Pa.,  on  April  20,  1836.     His 

845 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


parents  were  devoted  members  of  Zion  Lutheran  Church  of  that 
place,  and  young  Robert  grew  up  under  the  inspiring  influences 
and  activities  of  his  home  and  church. 

As  a  child  of  six  years,  he  was  present  on  the  momentous  occa- 
sion when  Alleghany  Synod  was  organized  in  the  old  church 
building  at  Hollidaysburg,  September  9,  1842.  At  the  age  of 
sixteen,  he  joined  Zion  Church,  and  at  the  age  of  eighteen,  he 
was  "selected  from  it  to  be  sent  to  Pennsylvania  College"  to  study 
for  the  ministry.  This  occurred  upon  the  great  occasion  when 
the  present  church  building  at  Hollidaysburg  was  dedicated. 

Seven  years  later,  when  his  term  of  preparation  was  nearing  its 


ROBERT    WEIDENSALL 


close,  Robert  Weidensall  was  compelled  to  abandon  his  hope  of 
the  ministry  on  account  of  serious  throat  trouble.  In  its  stead, 
he  was  allowed  to  take  up  teaching,  a  profession  which  he  fol- 
lowed until  September,  1862.  At  this  time  he  was  teaching  a 
Lutheran  parish  school  at  Middletown,  Md.,  when  the  sessions 
were  interrupted  by  the  Confederate  Army,  on  its  way  to  the 
battles  of  South  Mountain  and  Antietam.  His  schoolhouse 
became  the  first  hospital  of  the  battle  of  South  Mountain. 

His  experience  at  this  time  sent  him  into  the  Union  Army. 
He  entered  the  Quartermaster's  Department  at  Washington, 
846 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


D.  C,  but  later  joined  the  Construction  Corps,  U.  S.  Military 
Railroads,  at  Alexandria,  Va.,  serving  with  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac.  November,  1863,  he  was  transferred  to  the  corps  act- 
ing with  the  armies  of  the  Cumberland  and  the  Tennessee,  in 
which  he  served  until  November,  1864. 

It  was  in  1866  that  Robert  Weidensall  first  came  into  touch 
with  the  movement  that  was  destined  to  absorb  the  rest  of  his 
life.  After  a  year  spent  in  and  about  Oil  City,  Pa.,  during  the 
first  days  of  the  great  oil  excitement,  he  returned  to  his  home  in 
Hollidaysburg,  where  he  promptly  connected  himself  with  the 
movement  to  establish  a  local  Young  Men's  Christian  Associa- 
tion, one  of  the  earliest  of  such  organizations  in  this  country. 

In  the  fall  of  that  year,  1866,  he  went  to  Omaha,  Neb.,  where 
he  entered  the  Union  Pacific  Railroad  shops,  and  helped  to  build 
the  first  cars  that  crossed  the  Rocky  Mountains.  Here  he  joined 
the  Lutheran  Church  which  had  shortly  before  been  organized  by 
the  Rev.  H.  W.  Kuhn.  It  is  interesting  to  learn  by  the  grateful 
testimony  of  Robert  Weidensall  that  this  pastor  "was  supported 
in  his  work  by  the  Alleghany  Synod;  so  the  Synod  followed  me 
out  here  with  its  helpfulness." 

While  in  Omaha,  Robert  Weidensall  was  active  in  organizing 
(1867),  a  local  Young  Men's  Christian  Association.  His  peculiar 
fitness  for  the  work  must  have  early  manifested  itself,  for  in  the 
following  year,  October,  1868,  he  was  chosen  and  sent  forth  as 
the  first  field  secretary  of  the  Young  Men's  Christian  Association, 
the  office  which  he  has  held  continuously  to  the  present  day.  In 
this  position  he  has  labored  mightily  "to  disseminate  the  funda- 
mental principles  of  the  association,  to  designate  its  definite  work 
and  intimate  relation  to  the  evangelical  church,  and  to  organize 
individual  associations  as  parts  of  a  great  movement  in  extending 
the  Kingdom  of  Christ  among  young  men." 

As  pioneer  secretary  of  the  Young  Men's  Christian  Associa- 
tion, Robert  Weidensall  was  intimately  connected  with  every 
development  of  its  work.  He  took  the  first  steps  in  the  beginning 
and  early  development  of  the  principal  departments  of  the  asso- 
ciation movement.  His  most  important  achievements  are :  First, 
his  work  for  railroad  men,  1868-1875,  now  a  mighty  power  in  all 
parts  of  North  America ;  second,  his  work  for  Germans  and  other 
foreign-speaking  young  men   in  America,   1869- 1874,   since  ex- 

847 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


tended  to  most  of  the  European  nations,  and  now  bringing  forth 
its  harvest  of  good  on  Europe's  fields  of  carnage;* third,  his  work 
for  college  students  in  North  America,  1870- 1878,  since  extended 
to  at  least  twenty-six  nations,  from  which  has  also  come  the  won- 
derful student  volunteer  movement  and  the  world's  Student  Fed- 
eration; fourth,  his  creation  of  the  county  work  field  division  of 
the  association,  an  agency  now  regarded  as  the  most  helpful  and 
effective  for  the  best  development  of  all  kinds  of  Christian  effort 
in  the  small  towns  and  rural  districts  of  our  country. 

In  1873,  Robert  Weidensall  reorganized  the  first  Young  Men's 
Christian  Association,  then  existing  in  Normal  University, 
Normal,  111.,  putting  it  upon  an  evangelical  basis  of  church  mem- 
bership. This  he  followed  up  with  the  organization  of  other 
Young  Men's  Christian  Association  units,  with  a  view  to  a  united 
movement  on  behalf  of  the  young  women  of  America ;  his  active 
assistance  was  likewise  given  to  the  formation  of  their  State  and 
national  organizations,  and  the  establishment  of  their  training 
school. 

In  the  midst  of  this  vast  and  varied  work,  Robert  Weidensall 
found  time  to  write  many  papers  and  pamphlets  on  all  phases  of 
association  work  for  young  men  and  young  women.  The  year 
1913  witnessed  the  completion  of  nineteen  volumes  of  history  of 
the  beginning  and  early  development  of  the  Young  Men's  Chris- 
tian Association,  a  task  that  filled  nearly  6,000  pages. 

Meantime,  Robert  Weidensall's  activity  in  the  church  of  his 
faith  was  never  abated.  A  member  of  but  three  congregations 
during  his  lifetime — Hollidaysburg,  Pa. ;  Omaha  and  Yutan, 
Neb. ; — he  gave  freely  of  his  fine  abilities  in  the  establishment  of 
many  Lutheran  missions  in  Illinois,  Missouri,  Kansas,  Nebraska, 
Washington,  Oregon  and  California.  He  was  prominent  in  the 
formation  of  the  Kansas  and  Rocky  Mountain  Synods ;  he  helped 
to  found  Midland  College,  and  gave  it  its  name ;  he  was  the  prin- 
cipal factor  in  bringing  about  the  first  home  mission  convention 
of  the  General  Synod  at  Omaha,  Neb.,  which  resulted  in  the 
employment  of  the  first  Western  secretary  of  the  Board  of  Home 
Missions  and  the  first  secretary  of  the  Board  of  Church  Exten- 
sion for  the  General  Synod. 

Now  in  the  advanced  evening  of  life  the  level  rays  of  heaven 
shine  brightly  on  "Uncle  Robert,"  as  the  whole  Young  Men's 
848 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Christian  Association  brotherhood  loves  to  call  him.  The  spirit 
of  youth  is  stronger  than  ever  in  this  seer  of  the  association,  and 
his  eager  interest  is  in  nowise  abated  in  the  welfare  of  his 
beloved  church,  to  which  he  gives  the  credit  for  all  he  has  been 
permitted  to  do.  "You  see,"  he  said  one  day,  in  humble  comment 
on  his  splendid  work,  "what  the  Hollidaysburg  Lutheran  Church 
and  Alleghany  Synod  have  to  account  for  by  preparing  me  for 
my  work,  as  they  most  assuredly  have  done !" 

It  is  left  to  us  of  another  generation,  however,  to  see  the  side 
of  this  affair  that  Robert  Weidensall  has  never  thought  of — we 
must  see  how  highly  Alleghany  Synod  has  been  honored  by  the 
life  and  service  of  this  great  son  of  hers,  and  that  we  honor  our- 
selves most  by  this  recognition  of  his  deserved  place  in  our 
records. — Sketch  by  Rev.  Julius  F.  Seebach,  Hollidaysburg,  Pa. 

John  Weidley.  Born  at  Hollidaysburg,  Pa.  Parents,  Fred- 
erick and  Mary  Weidley.  Six  brothers  and  two  sisters.  At 
eleven  began  work  away  from  home.  Served  at  brick  making  at 
thirteen.  At  fifteen  until  twenty-one  worked  in  the  rolling  mill, 
at  Altoona,  Pa.  At  twenty-one  entered  Missionary  Institute, 
Selinsgrove,  Pa.  Received  aid  from  the  Alleghany  Synod. 
Graduated  in  June,  1886.  Entered  Junior  class  at  Gettysburg 
College  in  September,  1886.  Graduated  in  June,  1888.  Entered 
Lutheran  Theological  Seminary  at  Gettysburg,  Pa.  in  September, 
1888,  and  graduated  in  June,  1891.  Accepted  pastorate  of 
Bethany  Lutheran  congregation,  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  in  July,  1891, 
and  served  until  March  1,  1906.  During  this  period  a  fine  church 
was  erected,  and  a  new  congregation  organized,  now  strong  and 
influential.  Entertained  the  Woman's  General  Synodical  Society 
in  1903,  and  General  Synod  in  1905.  Became  pastor  of  the 
Lutheran  Church  of  the  Reformation,  Washington,  D.  C,  in  1906, 
March  1.  President  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  the  National 
Lutheran  Home  for  the  Aged,  Washington,  D.  C.  During  this 
term  of  office  a  splendid  new  home  for  the  aged  has  been  con- 
structed at  a  cost  of  $95,000.  Was  confirmed  by  the  Rev.  Henrj 
Baker,  D.D.,  pastor  of  the  First  Lutheran  congregation,  Altoona, 
Pa.  Ordained  by  the  Alleghany  Synod,  at  Altoona,  Pa.,  Septem- 
ber 6,  1891.  Received  the  title  of  Doctor  of  Divinity  from  Susque 
hanna  University,  Selinsgrove,  Pa.     Married  by  the  Rev.  J.  B 

849 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Keller,  at  Smithsburg,  Md.,  to  Miss  S.  R.  Richardson,  daughter 
of  Rev.  X.  J.  Richardson.    One  daughter,  Mary. 

David  S.  Weimer,  Kimberton,  Pa.,  eldest  son  and  child  of 
Wilson  and  Sophia  Jane  Weimer,  was  born  in  Monroe  Township, 
Bedford  County,  Pa.,  September  i,  1866.  His  early  years  were 
spent  on  the  farm.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  he  was  confirmed 
in  the  Lutheran  faith.  His  schooling  consisted  of  the  training 
afforded  by  the  common  schools  and  select  normal  schools,  a 
two  years'  course  in  the  Cumberland  Valley  State  Normal  School 
at  Shippensburg,  one  year's  course  in  Stevens  Academy  and  four 
years'  course  in  Pennsylvania  College  at  Gettysburg,  and  a  three 
years'  course  in  the  Lutheran  Seminary  at  the  same  place.  He 
taught  eleven  terms  in  the  common  schools  of  his  home  county, 
besides  a  number  of  Summer  normals.  On  September  13,  1906, 
he  was  ordained  to  the  Gospel  Ministry  according  to  the  rites  of 
the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  General  Synod,  which  he  has 
served  in  the  following  charges :  Glade,  Somerset  County ; 
Liberty,  Liberty  Valley,  Tioga  County ;  Friends  Cove,  Bedford 
County ;  South  Fork  and  Lovett,  Cambria  County ;  New  Florence. 
Westmoreland  and  Indiana  Counties;  Brookville,  Jefferson 
County;  Pikeland-Kimberton,  Chester  County.  In  1892,  Septem- 
ber 14,  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Elizabeth  Means,  youngest 
daughter  of  Horatio  and  Honor  Means,  to  which  union  has  been 
born  seven  children,  Ellis  Fay,  Harvey  Parson,  Del  Raymond, 
Honor  Sophia,  Alta  Floe,  Erma  Leona  and  Joseph  Michael. 
Ellis  Fay  and  Erma  Leona  are  deceased. 

John  Welfley,  was  born  at  Salisbury,  Somerset  County,  Pa., 
August  7,  1823.  He  was  the  son  of  Peter  and  Eva  Welfley.  In 
the  maternal  line  a  grandson  of  Catherine  Barbara  Weimer.  At 
the  division  in  1866,  he  united  with  the  General  Council.  He 
labored  largely  in  the  Pittsburgh  Synod.  Rev.  Welfley's  death 
occurred  at  Braddock,  Pa.,  December  19,  1898.  He  was  buried 
at   Donegal.   Westmoreland   County,   Pa. 

Samuel  Evaristus  Wicker,  Oakland,  Md.,  son  of  John 
Henry  and  Alice  Regina  Wilt  Wicker,  was  born  at  Altoona,  Pa., 
March  10,  1892.  Attended  the  public  schools  and  high  school 
850 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


of  the  city,  but  left  high  school  to  study  pharmacy.  After  three 
years'  apprenticeship  he  returned  to  high  school  and  prepared  for 
Pennsylvania  College,  which  he  entered  in  191  o,  and  graduated 
in  1914,  seminary,  191 7.  Was  baptized  by  the  Rev.  E.  D.  Weigle. 
Was  confirmed  in  1913,  by  the  Rev.  O.  C.  Roth.  Was  licensed 
by  the  Alleghany  Synod  in  1916,  and  expects  to  be  ordained  by 
the  West  Virginia  Synod  next  month.  Received  a  call  to  St. 
Mark's,  Oakland,  Md.,  and  took  charge  on  June  1.  Am  still  in 
the  ranks  of  happy  bachelorhood  and  expect  to  remain  there  for 
sometime  to  come. 

William  Hillis  Wynn,  D.D.,  Ph.D.,  Tacoma,  Wash.,  born 
in  Blairsville,  Pa.,  September  9,  1832.  Second  son  of  a  family 
of  nine,  parentage.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jonathan  Wynn. 


REV.  JOHN   WELFLEY 

Was  a  member  of  the  Lutheran  Church  of  Blairsville,  and  was 
put  forth  by  Rev.  Peter  Sahm,  pastor  of  that  church,  as  a  bene- 
ficiary of  the  Alleghany  Synod  at  the  age  of  fourteen,  and  sent  to 
the  newly  founded  Wittenberg  College,  where  I  graduated  in 
the  college  course,  the  first  class,  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  and  in 
the  theological  courses  at  the  age  of  nineteen. 

First  regular  pastorate  at  Hamilton,  Ohio,,  where  I  served  a 
mission  church,  and  was  principal  of  the  Hamilton  Academy, 
in  all  nine  years.  First  wife,  Mary  Ann  Caruthers,  of  Pitts- 
burgh, Pa.,  died  there,  leaving  a  child,  now  Robert  C.  Wynn. 
Four  years  afterward,   while   principal  of  the   City   Schools  of 

851 


BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCHES 


Middletown,  Ohio,  married  my  second  wife,  Elizabeth  Coles, 
of  that  place,  who  died  on  June  19,  having  shared  with  me  the 
duties  and  trials  of  a  college  career  lasting  for  over  fifty-five 
years.     A  family  of  five,  three  of  whom  survive. 

Resuscitated  and  reorganized  Mendota  College,  in  Mendota, 
111.,  in  1865,  with  the  help  of  David  Harbaugh,  of  sainted 
memory. 

Founded  Midland  College,  in  Atchison,  Kan.,  in  1887,  was 
with  it  for  seven  years,  when  I  was  recalled  to  the  State  College 
at  Ames,  Iowa,  where  I  had  served  fifteen  years  before  going 
to  Atchison. 

Was  one  of  the  founders  of  the  State  College  of  Iowa,  going 
there  from  the  office  of  Superintendent  of  Public  Instruction, 
Des  Moines,  Iowa,  1870,  serving  there  in  all,  twenty-two  years. 

Retired  from  the  State  College  of  Iowa,  from  age  limit,  1901, 
coming  directly  to  this  city  of  Tacoma,  where  for  sixteen  years, 
without  a  break,  I  have  been  writing  the  leading  editorial  for  the 
Tacoma  Sunday  Ledger,  one  of  the  largest  and  most  influential 
papers  on  the  Pacific  coast. 

For  all  of  which  I  am  indebted  to  the  generous  aid  rendered 
me  by  the  Alleghany  Synod. 

[Since  writing  the  above  Dr.  Wynn  died,  October  23,  1917, 
after  two  days'  illness. — Ed.] 

We  reach  the  end,  the  work  complete  ; 
The  task — to  choose  alone  the  meet — 
Is  given  o'er.     With  kindly  eye, 
Review  the  faults  you  may  decry : 
Dwell  on  the  vast  amount  of  good 
Accomplished  by  our  brotherhood ! 
And  fill  the  ranks !     In  dread  array 
The  hosts  of  sin  stand  yet  to-day. 
Fight  as  the  fathers  did  of  yore : 
Our  deeds  will  make  theirs  shine  the  more. 

W.  H.  B.  Carney. 

852 


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855 


PORTRAITS  OF  MINISTERS  AND 
LAYMEN 


PAGE 

Adams,  Mrs.   Mary 672 

Alleghany  Synod  of  1869,   (Iden-    ■ 
tifications  by  Rev.  J.   H.   Zinn, 

D.D.)    194 

Alleghany  Synod  Missionary  So- 
ciety Presidents — Mrs.  Helen  C. 
Beegle,  Mrs.  A.  F.  Dickey,  Mrs. 
J.  F.  Hartman,  Mrs.  T.  B.  Patton, 
Mrs.  W.  W.  Blake,  Miss  Kate 
M.     Stewart,     Miss     Nellie     E. 

Berg    235 

Aughey,   Samuel,  D.D.,  LL.D....   221 
Aurandt,    Joshua 687 

Baker,   Henry,   D.D 367 

Bare,   Mrs.   Sally 592 

Bell,    William 385 

Bill,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Charles 596 

Bockes,  Luis 600 

Bockes,  Catharine  and  Descend- 
ants      601 

Bonig,  Mr.  and  Mrs 597 

Border,  Daniel 574 

Bossert,    W.    H 428 

Boyer,   M.   G.,   D.D 791 

Brown,    W.    E 630 

Carney,  W.  H.  B 636 

Carpenter,  S.  N.,  D.D 674 

Coleman,    Solomon 623 

Collins,   Benjamin   B 227 

Crider,  George   429 

Criley,  W.  W.,  D.D 387 

Custer,  J.  R 738 

Davis,  J.   B 546 

Dively,    Josiah 582 

Domer,    Samuel,    D.D 802 

Faust,   R.   J 293 

Firey,  M.  J.,  D.D 367 

Flick,  H.  H 809 

Focht,   D.   H 811 

Focht,  J.   R 813 

Folmar,   Mr.   and   Mrs.   A.   J 672 

Gregory,    James 740 

Hackman,    C.    V 295 


PAGE 

Haer,    George 639 

Hamma,  M.  W.,   D.D. 372 

Hartman,    J.    F 387 

Hazlebarth,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  C.  R...  585 

Hemminger,   C.  J 715 

Henkel,    Paul 125 

Heyer,  J.  C.  F 197 

Hoffman,    Daniel 573 

Johnston,  E.   S.,   D.D 817 

Johnson,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Daniel.  .  .    640 

Klemstine,    J.    F 685 

Kline,  M.  J.,  D.D 377 

Krauth,  Chas.  Porterfield,  D.D...  142 

Kretchman,   Manasses 600 

Kuhlman,  W.  S 546 

Kuhlman,   J.    F 216 

Kuhns,  H.  W.,  D.D 207 

Kurtz,    Benjamin,    D.D 132 

Lafferty,   J.    P 397 

Livingston,    Samuel 574 

Loechel,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Caspar. .  .  584 

Lohr,   Neff 740 

Lohr,  Thomas 577 

Lohr,  John  T 577 

Lowe,  C.   Luther 420 

Lowry,  George 586 

Lowry,    Benjamin 591 

McCarney,    Guy 560 

McCauley,  Mrs.  Rev.  J.  Wm 690 

Miller,    Jacob 591 

Miller,    Luther 686 

Miller,   S.   R 742 

Muhlenberg,  H.  M 112 

Naugle,   H.    D 578 

Naugle,  Benjamin    577 

Naugle,   David    576 

Ott,   Henry   E 578 

Pastors  of  the  Juniata  Confer- 
ence        254 

Pastors  of  the  Northeast  Confer- 
ence      464-467 

Pastors  of  the  Somerset  Confer- 
ence        602,  610,  618,  624 

857 


PORTRAITS  OF  MINISTERS  AND  LAYMEN 


PAGE 

Piper,  Mrs.  M.  K 690 

Poorbaugh,   Adam 769 

Ramey.  D.  K 385 

Reed,    William 428 

Roth,  0.  C,  D.D 37s 

Ruppel,  Hon.  W.  H 241 

Scholl,  George,  D.D 386 

Shearer,    J.    F 386 

Schmucker,   S.  S.,  D.D 131 

Snyder,    Harrison 716 

Sorrick,  A.  C 426 

Sprecher,  Samuel,  D.D.,  LL.D...  132 

Stahl,  W.  R 617 

Stahl,     Samuel 623 

Steck,    Charles   T 386 

Straw,  J.  H 840 

Stuft't,  David 722 

Troutman,  William   776 

858 


PAGE 

Turner,   J.   C 429 

Van  Ormer,  W.   W 329 

Van  Ormer,  A.  B.  Bunn,  Pd.D...  389 

Wagner,  A.  E.,  D.D 388 

Walker,   Jonathan   G 625 

Weaver,  John  and  Catherine....  723 

Weible,   Jacob  J 576 

Weidensall,  Robert 846 

Weigle,  E.  D.,  D.D 369 

Welch,  J.  J 60s 

Welfley,  Mr.  and  Mrs,  Peter 583 

Welfley,    John 851 

Westley,  John  B 386 

Winterberg,   Mr.   and   Mrs 598 

Witt,    John   A 776 

Wolfersberger,  D.  H 714 

Yon,   Mr.  and  Mrs.  W.   H 427 

Young,  M.  L.,   Ph.D 612 

Young,  L.   P.,  D.D 229,  581 


PICTURES  OF  CHURCHES 


PAGE 

Addison  Charge  : 

St.    John's 537 

St.    Paul's    542 

Ursina    544 

Trinity    (Confluence)    547 

Altoona  : 

First    373 

Christ's   Second    384 

Fourth   390,  391 

St.    Paul's    394 

Bedford,   Trinity 253 

Berlin,   Trinity 550 

Oirnbrook  : 

Shade 567,  568 

Graeff 570 

Casebeer 558,  559 

Cumberland,  St.  Stephen's 562 

Davidsville,  St.  Thomas' 575 

Du  Bois,  Trinity 422,  423 

Elk  Lick: 

St.   John's    581 

Greenville    58S 

Grantsville 594.  595 

St.  Paul's 599 

Parsonage    581 

Frankstown,  Old    431 

Friedens  * 

Friedens     604 

Wills 607 

Mizpah    608 

Listie    609 

G  rrett : 

St.  Paul's   (Fritz) 612 

St.  Michael  (Pine  Hill) ...  617,  621 

Pine   Hill,   Union 619,  620 

Mt.    Tabor .  630,  632 

Center 636 

Parsonage    631 

Glasgow  : 

Glasgow    434.  435 

Coalport 438 

Hooversville  : 

Hooversville    649 

Lambertsville    651 

Huntingdon   274,  277,  279 

Jennerstown  : 

St.  James' 653 

Christ    656 

Mt.   Zion    658 

St.  Andrew's 660 


PAGE 

Johnstown  : 

First 665,668 

Trinity    671 

Moxham 677 

Grace    679 

Karthaus  : 

Trinity    45 1 

Oak   Hill    452 

Keewaydin   454 

Lavansville : 

Mt.   Calvary  and   Parsonage...  692 

Mt.   Zion    695 

Lilly,    St.    Luke's 684 

LUTHERSBURG  : 

St.    Paul's 455 

St.  Peter's   457 

Marklesburg-Saxton  : 

Old  Stone,  Marklesburg 300 

Saxton  Church  and  Parsonage.  302 

Martinsburg,  St.  Matthew's 463 

Meyersdale,  Zion 697 

Mt.  Union,  Church  and  Parson- 
age    292 

Newry  : 

Newry    47 1 

Claysburg 483 

St.  Mark's   488 

Petersburg  : 

Zion    305 

First      and      Trinity,      Water- 
street  309,  3 1 r 

Portage,  Portage 702 

Roaring  Spring,  St.  Luke's  507 

Rockwood,  St.  Luke's    712,  713 

Scalp  Level  : 

Mt.   Zion    721 

Dunmeyer 725 

Grace    72~7 

Schellsburg : 

Union     326 

St.  Matthew's   33° 

Sinking  Valley,  St.  John's 511 

Somerset 746,  747,  749 

Parsonage    745 

South   Fork : 

South  Fork   739 

Lovett   74i 

Stoyestown  : 

Grace    752 

859 


PICTURES  OF  CHURCHES 


PAGE  PAGE 

Hoffman   756            St.  Paul  (Jackson) 766 

Horner    758        West  End,  West  E^nd 345 

Summerhill:  Wellersburg  : 

Summerhill    761             Zion    (Wellersburg)     773 

Wihnore     764            Mt.   Carmel   767 

860 


INDEX  OF  PASTORS 


Allen,  G.  K 323,  569,  650,  739,  762 

Allenbach,   C.   R 414 

Altman,  Daniel  S 320,  328,  342 

Amick,  G.  W.  W 336,  786 

Anschutz,  C.  W 673 

Anstadt,   Peter 433,  444 

Anstadt,  W.  W 262,  277,  447 

Aughe,   A.   H 304,  3 1 1 

Aughe,    Samuel 213,  2i9ff. 

Augustine,    Isaac 775 

Aurand,  C.  M 355ff.,  402ft.,  469 

Aurand,  Charles  G 786 

Babb,    Augustus. 450,  560,  693,  695,  749 
Bachtel,  W.   B 264,284,289,295, 

301, 317, 321,  322 

Bachtel,  Martin  M 719 

Baker,  Henry.  191,  363,  366ft.,  409,  425, 

433,435,476,  523 

Baker,    Charles 696,  787 

Ball,  Jesse  W 556,  788 

Barkley,   W.   W..., 336,393,788 

Barnitz,  F.  A 264,  317,  663 

Barry,   D.   R.    P 277,286,392,437 

Bassler,     Gottlieb 207,  208 

Battersby,   G.   S 306,312,519,522 

Baughman,  G.  W 265 

Bauman,  W.  A 569,  571 

Bean,  A.  J 413,  492,  504,  511,  514, 

519, 521, 523 

Beaver,    John 539,  545,  568,  573, 

649,  651,  655 

Beckley,    G.    H 336 

Bechtel,  Joseph  J.. .  568,  573,  649,  655 

Bell,  P.  G 394,  404,  419,  679,  687 

702, 704,  762 
Bell,    Lewis    J. .  .720,  726,  762,  764,  765 

Bender,  H.  W 329,  331,  343,  505, 

688, 703 
Benedict,     F..  .  .  260,  266,  270,  271,  335 

Bergstresser,   F.   L 525 

Bergstresser,    Peter 705,  709 

Bergstresser,    Ralph    H 

Bergman,   P.   E 

Berkey,  W.  A 

Berkey,    C.    E 655,658 


Berkey,  H.  E. 
Berlin,  S.  J... 
Biltz,    F.   J.... 


409 


...  401 
. ..    68S 

■  •  •  754 
S61,  731, 

754. 789 

509. 790 
425,529 
.  .  .    629 


PAGE 

Black,   L.    S 450 

Blackwelder,   D.   M 301,303,335 

Bloomhardt,    Paul 480,  488 

Bosserman,   A 664,  761,  763 

Bowman,  E.  J 506 

Boyer,   E.    B 540,  548 

Boyer,  M.  G....  194,276,284,288,299, 

301,  303.  305,425,477, 
483, 489, 790 

Brame,  Ira  C 343,  345 

Brant,    C.    C 762,  764 

Bratton,  J.   H 276,281,287,301, 

412,458,490,503 
Bricker,  Jacob   K.. .  275,  287,  289,  301, 

568,  569,  572,631,  645, 
648,651,655,  707 

Bright,   George   S 505 

Brininger,    ■ 596 

Brown,  G.  G.  M 265,  563 

Brown,  W.  E 6i6ff. 

Brubaker,  John.  325,  329,  554,  556,  794 

Buck,    J.    L 323,  730,  734 

Burk,  A.  H 616,  629,  639 

Burket,    Jacob.  .  273.  283,  289,  301,  795 

Burkholder,    H.    B 556ft'. 

Bush,  L.  A 722,  726,  741 

Butler,    Gideon 572,  654,  663 

Butler,   J.    G 199,  796 

Byers,  J.  W 700 

Campbell,  W.  G 265 

Carney,  W.  H.  Bruce 6i6ff. 

Carpenter,    Sanford    N 675 

Claney,    W.    Blair 355ft-,  422 

Clare,  Robert  D 668 

Collins,   Benjamin    B..  ..  227,  228,  439, 
554,  556,  679,  700,  702,  797 

Colson,    199 

Courtney,    G.   L 282,  332,  343, 

5n,5i8ff. 

Crebs,  W.   E 768,  775 

Crebs,  W.  W 461 

Crigler,     Jacob...  173,  177ft.,  202,  342, 

348,352,  537,  551ft.,  557, 

629, 644,  707,  732 

Criley,   W.   W 387 

Crist,    Isaiah    B 631,  699 

Crist,  George  W 418ft.,  493,  495, 

504,  519.655 
861 


IXDEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Crist,  J.   B 306,311,409,435,511, 

568ft".,  649,  708 

Croft,    Samuel..  281,285,290,450,453, 

683, 687,  701,  762,  765 

Crossland,  Frederick  R 424,  772 

Crouse,  T.  L 292ff. 

Culler,    M.    L 262,268 

Curtis,   S 320,  409 

Cutter,   W.    1 219 

Daubenspeck,  L.   M 731 

Daugherty,   S.   D 396,  797 

Davis,    McLean 297 

Day,   C.   H 7o8ff. 

Delo,    F.    S 332,  509 

Dickey,  E.  F 800 

Diehl,    Christian.  ...  411,  455,  458,  490 

Diehl,  J.   H 335 

Dieterick,    E.    E 281 

Dieterick,    J.    F 327ft. 

Dingman,    Edwin 282 

Dise,    B.    S 416,419,450,453,509 

Doerr,   Philip 317,  524 

Domer,     Samuel 409,  435,  801 

Donmeyer,  J.  G 163,450,  452,  457 

Drawbaugh,  u.  P 393 

Dunlap,    J.    A 511,519,686,688, 

703. 730, 734 

Dunlap,  G.  W 740 

Dutt,    E 355ft'.,  432ft.,  46S,  509 

Dye,    S.    V 450 


Earhart,    D 643,  693 

Ebert,   J.    W 2 

Ehrenfeld,    C.     L...  366,  409, 

Ehrenfeld,  A.   C 

Ellinger,  John  G 301,  355 

Emery,  W.   S 311 

Emerson,  J.   M 

Enartie,    J 

Enders,  G.  W.  Jr 

English,    J.    S • 301 

Erhard,    A.    B 574-576, 


Erhard,  M.  G. ..  425,477,483 

Erler,    John 

Essick,   Abraham 261 

Eyler,   D.  J 355**-,  468 

Eyester,    Michael 510, 


699, 803 

84,  289ft. 

425,433. 

435. 446 

664 

,463,  53i 
, 510, 519 

450 

414 

414 

ft'.,  752ft. 
721, 739. 
762, 765 
489, 522 
.  .  708ft. 
269, 271 
476,  482 
513. 529, 
533. 535 


Pahs,  W.   H 450,  526 

Fair,     Elias 347,  349,  557,  616,  620, 

629, 696,  730,  732 

Fasold,    P.    B 643,646,722,741 

Fasold,  J.   C 706,  709 

S62 


p,\r,K 

Fastnacht,  — — 458 

Felton,  A.    M 539.  548,  755^. 

Felton,   A.    K 478,  483,  486,  504 

Fetzer,    C.   A 409,434,450,453, 

499. 524 

Fichtner,    Joseph 355fr.,  468,  476, 

482, 489,  506 

Finckle,    S.    D 351 

Fink,   Reuben   S 664ft.,  670 

Firey,    M.    J 367,  380 

Fishburn,    Jeremiah 264,  317,  322 

Fisher,  W.   E 554,  556,  804 

Fisher,  A.  H .  .  .   '556 

Fisher,    F.    P 306,  312,  403,  804 

Fleck,  L.  N...  267,  270,  429,  479ft.,  705 
709,  714.  755ff.,8o7 

Fleck,    H.    R 285,  289,  807 

Fleck,  E.  Lee 806 

Fleck,    Cyrus 805 

Fletcher,    R.     H 275,281,286, 

5'9. 522 

Flick,   H.   H.,   Sr 694,  808 

Flick,  H.   H.,  Jr 437ft"..  694,  809 

Flickinger,    J.    A 323 

Floto,    C.    F 564,569,650,810 

Focht,    Cyrus 343,  345 

Focht,   D.   H 342,  349,  81 1 

Focht,  Joseph  R. .  .  .  276,  324,  41 1,  417, 

458, 490, 502,  812 

Folk,    Ed.    L 509,  548 

Follmer,  H.   N 278,  291 

Forthman,    John..  .  .  284,  290,  586,  589, 

599, 603,  638,  697 

Fox,  J.  T 702 

Frazier,    J 285,  301,  425,  483,  489 

Freas,    W.    S 265 

Frantz,   J.    Luther 701 

Frey,  W.   W 469,  740 

Furtz,    M.    L 323 

Furtz,  S.  E 329,  331 

Gathers,  H 500 

Gaver,  John   352,  589 

Geisenheimer,    F.    W 152,450 

Gephart,    C.    F. ...  479,  483,  486ft.,  560, 

693,695 

Gerhardt,  Leonidas.  178,560,693,695, 

749,  75i,8i3 

Gettle,  Wm.  G 539,  548 

Gheen,   Peter    539,  545,  547 

Gibson,    Wm.    L 257,320,53s 

Gladhill,  J.   T 456,  459ff. 

Glanding,    W.    M.    B 380,814 

Glaze,   A.   R 301,303 

Good.  W.   1 406ft'.,  682 

Graybill,    J.    M 265,318,324 

Greenhoe,    S.    F 450 


INDEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Groenmiller,  J.   G 213,  219,  224ft'., 

342,     351.353 

Gross,    G.    D..  343,  494,  574,  576,  648ft., 

721, 726,  762 

Grossman,    Moses 538,  540,  541 

Gruver,  C.  B...   191.328,529,532,555, 
557. 629,  732 

Gruver,  O.  H 556,  769,  775,  814 

Guenther,    C.    C 334^-.  355.  4»9, 

463. 474 

Guiney,    J.    B 282,381,739,815 

Guistiniani,    L 204,  342,  344,  348, 

352,  361,  629,  732 

Haas,  Frederick.  166,  272ft.,  282,  299, 
308,  358,  409,  430,  433,  441. 
510,  518,  529.  582,  586,  589 

Hafer,   D.   S 722 

Hamma,  M.  W 37 iff-,  380 

Hanker,    Henry..  .  256,  314,  323,  326ft., 
34i,35off.,  587 

Harkey,  J.  S ■ 750,  75  1 

Harrah,  C.  P 509 

Harrison,    P.    L 412,491,503 

Hartman,    J.    A 406ft. 

Hartman,    J.    F 387 

Hartsock,   A.   J 412,  762 

Harshman,  O.   F..  5S7,  589,  595ft.,  603, 
638,685.688,703ft. 

Haskarl,    G.    C.    H 494 

Hassinger,   R.   F 450 

Haus,   L.    R 417 

Hauser,    E.    Roy 429,  561 

Haverstick,   Henry..  203,567,589,605, 

642,  749.  755ft-,  774 

Hawkins,  I.  P...  417,419,450,493,497, 

539, 548,  688,  703 

Hay,  E.  G 276,  286 

Heck,  Jacob   528ft. 

Hege,    J.    H 297 

Height,  Adam  R. ..  .264,  281,  297,  317, 

320,  342,  491,   501,   503, 

56Sff.,  649,  656,  721,  762 

Heilig,   Daniel.  .  157,  178,  450,  538,  605, 

642,  745,  749,  755,757 

Heilman,   H.   M 400,  517 

Heim,  G.  R 319 

Heine,    Henry 529 

Henderson,    J.    W..  .413,  425,  478,  483, 

486, 505 
Hentz,  J.   P 556,560,656,693,695, 

749,  75J 

Heslig,  J.  S 301 

Heyer,    C.    F.. .  136,  153,  168,  173,  178, 

196ft'.,  350,  450ft'.,  472,  566, 

572,    586ft".,    604,    642,    652, 

663,  744,  749,  755ff-,  774 


PAGE 

Hilbish,  W.   H 508,  540,  548 

Hill,  J.  J 509 

Hilty,   J.    K 323 

Hoffman,  William 704,  740 

Hoffman,  John  H 334ft-,  36l>  409. 

463,  473 

Holman,   S.  A 367 

Hooper,    P.    S 355ft'.,  413,  468,  507 

Hoover,   D.   Stuart    560,  740 

Hoover,    H.    D 606,608,611 

Hoskinson,   W.   S 815 

Houseman,    J.    H.. .  282,  407,  409,  569, 
649, 652,  655,  704,  737 

Huber,   Eli.  .  .' 219,  226 

Hubler,  E.  M 573.  576,  721 

Hunt,    Wm 409.  425,  529 

Hunt,   B.   F 262,328 

Hutchinson,  J.  W 478,  486,  655 

Ibach,  W.   0 437ft- 

Irwin,  K.  E 424 

Jacobs,  C.  F 511,  519.  696, 816 

Johnston,   E.   S 587.589.596,603, 

754ft-  769.  771,  775-  816 
Jones,    E.    H 319,  3^9 

Kantner.  W.  0 818 

Kast,  A.  J.  B 266,  269,  272,  318, 

320,  328,  331,  34^ 

Keedy,    C.    L 664 

Keller,  E.   L 329,  440,  68 r 

Keller,  C.  E 329,  440,  509 

Keller,  Jos.  H 505 

Keller,   J.    B 26 1 ,  269,  272 

Kerlin,    A.    A 281,306,312,437ft. 

Kerr,  J.  J...  276,  281,  285,  287,  305,  314. 
392,  448ft.,  670,  687,  762 

Ketner,  G.  J.  M. 819 

Ketterman,  P.  H 680,  703 

Keyl,  450 

Killinger,  E.  B..  .406ft".,  432ft'..  446,  505 
Kistler,   John 311,  350,  405,  409, 

511,519,  524 

Kitzmiller,  J.  H.  A 328,  768,  775 

Klies,    John 762,  764,  778 

Kline,  L.  W.  H 450,  511,519 

Kline,  M.  J 377ft- 

Knight,  Lloyd.  266,  411,  425,  423ft.,  445 

Koehler,   John 774 

Koons,  H.  S 264,  3 1 7 

Kopp,   Wm.   A 328,  331ft-  342,  567, 

572,648,655 

Koser,  D.  T.. . .  539,  545,  548,  5S7,  589, 

603,  631, 638, 699 

Kramer,  J.  P.   F. ...  256,  333,  336,  339, 

354,472 
863 


IX HEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Kril.hs.    \Y.    W 587ft- 

Krider,   Samuel.  569,649,728,739,741 
Krider,   Isaac.  4o6ff.,  425,  432ft.,  436ft. 

Krumbine,    M.    H 397 

Kuhlman,  J.  F. .  210,216,683,693,695, 
72iff.,  726,  760,  764ft. 

Kuhlman,    Luther 655,  819 

Kuhnert,  Curtis  E 564 

Kuhns,    H.    W 2o6ff.,  218ft". 

Kunkleman,  J.  A 328.  342 

Kurtz,  D.  S 706ft. 

Laitzle,  W.  G....  301,311,  355ft.,  468, 
476,482,  510,  519,532 

Lambert,  Charles 407ft.,  606ft. 

Lampbrecht,  John  G 167,  536,  642 

Lane,  Peter  P..  257,410,450,457,490, 

502,556 

Lange,   Frederick  W....  124,165,199, 

255.  314,  336,  55i,   557.  582,  586, 

603,  619,  629,  641,  643,  706,  732, 

743.  749.  753 

Lau,   D.   B 569,  649 

Laubach,    Benjamin 183,259,263, 

301,  322,  355>463,  532 

Lawson,  S.  B..  .  567,  572,  583,  586,  589, 

605,  507,  637,  645,  654,  707,  719, 

7SSff.,768 

Lazarus,    596 

Leisher,    W.    L 437ft-,  762 

Leiter,    George 158,  342,  348,  351, 

450,  538,   557,  586,  589,  629,  645, 
707,  710,  732 

Lenn,    596 

Lentz,   D.   S 393 

Lepley,   Christian.  281,  351ft.,  586,  589, 
766, 768,  774 

Lerch.    J.    A 573.  576.  721 

Lichtenberg,  John   P 778 

Liebegott,  C.  E 822 

Lilly,  A.  W 214 

Lingle,    J.    W 285,  323.  437ft- 

Litzel,  John  W..164,  255,  314,  336,  550, 
557.  58o,  603,  641,  705 

Lochman,   A.   H 155,450ft. 

Long,    A 193 

Longanecker,   A.   R 420ft. 

Lowe,   J.    E.,   Jr 643,  646 

Lowe,    J.    A 822 

Manges,    E 560,  693 

Manges,   Edmund    1 54°,  821 

Markley,  R.  L 822 

Martin,  Jacob..  301 ,  334.  360,  409,  433, 
442ft.,  473,  5'0,  512,  527ft-,  663 

Matter,   F.  J 265,  296 

er,  Jacob 754.  823 

864 


PAGE 

Medtart,   Jacob    572,  663 

Metzler,   E.  J 395,  529,  704 

MacLaughlin,   C.    P 700 

McAtee,  J.  G 261,  269,  271 

McCarney,   J.   C 606ft. 

McCarney,   Guy   E 561 

McCauley,   E.   R 396 

McClintic,   Hugh 319ft. 

McDowell,  S.J 323 

McHenry,  Solomon.  276,281,285,305, 

409,  425,  432ft'.,  477,  483,  489,  519. 

529,  535,  645ff.,  707,  718 

Michael,   D.   W 701 

Michael,  H.  C 678 

Miller,   A.   B 268,  643ft'. 

Miller,    J.    K 605,608,755ft. 

Miller,   P.  H •. 688,703 

Miller,  J.   P 526 

Miller,    Victor    N 543 

Miller,  Shile 688,  696,  702,  824 

Miller,   John   L 649 

Minemier,  J.  J 268,  823 

Mockenhaupt,    Philip...  315,333,336, 
339,  354,  536,  588ft".,  773 

Morgan,  E.  M 525 

Moser,  Daniel  M...  283,287,  301,310, 

334,  412,   519ft- 

Mumford,  Carl 294 

Xellis,    P.    S 351,  435,450ft.,  499ft., 

584,  589,768,774 

Nicoll,   W.    D 282,  494 

Nixdorf,  G.  A 412 

Null,    A.    G 306,  312 

Nuner,    J.    A 321,342,450,457, 

573.  575ff- 721 

Oberholtzer,    H.   M 511.521,525 

Oestereich,   587 

Oney,  E.  E 587ft. 

Osterloh,  John  F.. .  256,  273,  301,  315, 
335ff- 354.  529 

Parson,    E.    E 268,335,381,400 

Patterson,   R.    S 555ft- 

Patterson,    R.    L 559ft-,  748ft. 

Pee,  E.  L 825 

Peter,    J 323,  334ft-,  4°7 

Petersen,  J.   D 327,  348,  350 

Petrea,    H.    M 323,  546ft'.,  693ft'. 

Pfahler,  M.  F...  538,  541,  585ft-,  593ft"-, 
/}  603,  638,  645ft.,  699ft-,  768ff. 

Phillipy,    N.   G 323,  505 

Pile,  G.   M 560,  693ft.,  749ft-,  826 

Poifenberger,   J.    W 

Potts,  A.   D 306.  312 


INDEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Price,  W.  L 432ff. 

Probst,  G.  C 265,  295ft-.  3i7 

Pugh,   B.    F 826 

Quinn,  C.  L 330 

Rearick,    W.    M 529,  534 

Rausch,  J.   R 494,  498 

Rebenach,  J.  C. .  172, 273,  282,  301,  309, 

529,  566,  571,  604,  642,  743,  749, 
755,  757 

Reck,  A 200,  202 

Reese,  J.   W 267ft.,  3 1 8 

Reeser,  T.   F 447 

Reichert,  J.  G. . .  154,  160,  202,  358,  433, 
442,  4Soff.,  455,462 

Reighard,  J.  C 338,  827 

Reisch,    Thomas 447 

Reitmyer,  Cyrus.  . . .  283,  285,  290,  301 
Reitmeyer,    Peter    M..  ..  260,  266,  273, 

283ff.,  301,  311,  335,  511,  519,529, 
532, 663, 763 

Remsberg,    W.    L 693ft.,  730,  734 

Reynolds,   H.  0 574,  828 

Rex,    William    H 411,458,490 

Rhoads,  H.  S 678,  751,  828 

Rhodes,  G.  M 261 

Rice,  J.  M 335,  529 

Rice,  E.  F 655ft. 

Richards,  John 355ft-,  468,  532 

Richter,   J.   A 569,  571,  722,  72% 

Ries,  Charles.  .  342,  348,  352,  538,  557, 
607,  612,  616,  629,  645,  647,  707, 732 

Rinard,    H.   A 829 

Ringer,  C.  J 829 

Ritz,   Solomon 263,  270,  321,  473 

Rizer,  Peter. .  187,  351,  556ft.,  560,  567, 

572,  605,  642,  653,  692,  694,  749, 

75i, 755ft- 

Roland,    E.   Victor 343,  830 

Romig,    M.    S 730,  734 

Rose,  H.  C 301,  303,  670,  831 

Ross,   M.  J 512,  518,  829 

Roth,   O.   C 374ft.,  380 

Royer,  George  A 540 

Rudisill,    A.    J 557 

Russell,  C.  D 265,319,428,505 

Ruthrauff,   W 320,  328,  342 

Ryder,   D.   L 431,  446 

Sahm,    Peter 208,  6o6ff.,  648,  664, 

755ff.,  762ft. 

Sahm,  M.   O.  T 493ft.,  762,  831 

Salem,  H.  C 335,  493,  574ft-  706ft". 

Sample,  J.  R 509 

Sandt,  CM 278 

Schaeffer,   G.   F 833 


PAGE 

Schindler,  Daniel 433,  445 

Schluttig,    Richard    319 

Schmick,  J.  G 170,  308,  358,  409, 

433,  441,  472,  sioff.,  518,  527ft 

Schmidt,  J.  H 381ft'. 

Schmucker,  Peter.  .  566,  604,  642,  749, 

755,   757 

Schmucker,  M.  L 731 

Schnure,  J.  P..  .  419,  436ft'.,  493ft.,  504, 

768,   775 

Schoch,  W.  H 343 

Scholl,   George 385 

Schrader,    F.    H 480ft. 

Schriver,  P.  J 569,  650 

Schroeder,   H.   B 329,  4 1 1; 

Schuler,  William 283 

Schultze,  William 571,  663 

Schutze,  322ft. 

Schwartz,  J.  W 191,  509,  664 

Schwartz,     Elias.  .  335ft'.,  468,  476,  482 

Sechrist,   C.  W 323 

Seebach,  Julius  F 447ft- 

Seifert,  Henrv.  . .  298,  355ft.,  381,  468, 

655 

Sell,  A 659,  755ft- 

Sell,  D 522 

Seiner,    W 456ft. 

Settlemeyer,  W.  H. . .  .  670,  702ft".,  762, 

76S,  834 

Shaffer,    D.    L 835 

Shaffer,  J.  T 772 

Shannon,  J.  W 294 

Sharretts,  N.  G....  156,  202,  301,  450, 

572,  663 

Sharp,  M.  S 355ft-,  469 

Shaulis,   S.  A 285,  696,  836 

Shearer,  J.   F 386,  560,  749 

Sheeder,  Philip....  347ft.,  355ft.,  368, 

S09,   557,   616,   627ft.,   699,   721, 

730ft.,  762 

Sheeder,  B.  R.  M 703,  704 

Sheese,  G.  F 509,  649 

Shertz,  A.  H 478ft.,  509,  649 

Shipman,  W.  A 432ft.,  446,  666ff. 

Shirk,  P.  B 436,  450,  492,  504 

Shoup,  J.  B...  569,  632,  649,  705,  709, 

711,  718 

Shull,  C.  H 511,  518ft. 

Shultz,  F.  S 381,  680,  763,  832 

Shultz,    Gustavus..     157,178,450,566. 

57i 

Shultz,  Emile 768,  775 

Shultz,  David  H 836 

Sieber,   L.   L 241 ,  243,  643, 693 

Simons,   Jacob   S 361,409,474ft. 

Singley,    W.    H 539 

Slater,  S.  E 278,  356ft.,  469 

865 


INDEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Slifer,  W.  G 297 

Slonaker,  W.  G 297,  343,  548 

Spangler,  William. . . .  267,  270,  437ff., 

529,  655,  837 

Spangler,   L.   Stoy 265 

Spayd,  W.  C 294 

Spotts,  M.  A 30iff.,   t94 

Smith,  C.  E 677,  728 

Smith,    A.    M 539,  548 

Smith,  Reuben....  519,  523,  569,  587, 
589,  603,  638,  646,  649,  707 

Smith,  S.  E 419 

Smith,  A.  W 772 

Snyder,  J.  M 297,  589,  614,  616, 

633.  638,  699,  7'2 

Snyder,  Simon   722 

Snyder,  G.  F 395,  685,  688 

Snyder,  Luther  T 647,  837 

Snyder,  Michael 538 

Stabley,  J.  F 655,  660 

Stahl,  William  R...  625,  731,  734,  839 

Stair,  R.  S 51  iff. 

Steck,  Jacob 409,  425,  435 

Steck,  J.  M 124,  165,  255,  314,  336, 

SSi,  557,  581,  586,  617,  629,  641, 

70S,  743,  753 

Steck,  W.  F 505 

Steck,   Charles  T 385 

Stine,  J.  J 411,  458,  490 

Stine,    M.    H 401 

Stock,  D 355ft-,  468,  509 

Stock,  C.  M 262,  318 

Stouffer,  Samuel  S 321,  342,  458, 

503,  655,  839 

Stover,  J.  M 319 

Strauss,  A.  M 554ff.,  613ft.,  629ff., 

73ofL,  768,  775 

Straw,    J.    H 839 

Streamer,    C.    L.. .  191,  355*1.,  468,  504 

509,  840 

Streamer,  W.  A.  H 30 iff.,  842 

Streamer,  C.  R 355ft-,  469,  841 

Stroh,  Nicolas  J 15S,  450 

Stroup,  G.  W 343,  347,  450,  453- 

519,  522 

Stufft,  David.  .  .  .  321,  342,  344,  351ft-, 

573,  576,  655,  670,  721,  843 

Stup,  G.  Z 323 

Styer,  G.  W 419 

Sunday,  W.  E 569,  650 

Swope,  D 664 

Taubner,   Carl  M 77^ 

Taylor,  S.  J..  450,  529,  539,  548,  555^- 

Tedrow,  William 647,  844 

Thomas,  H  L 4Soff . 

Thomas,  T.  B 400 

866 


PAGE 

Tiedeman,  E,  H....  168,  256,  315,  327, 

333,    336,    342,    557,    629,    642ft., 

706,  731,  743,  749,  755ff. 

Thompson,    A. .  .  328,  436,  458,  491,  504 

Tilp,  C.  H 844 

Tomlinson,  John  W. . .  338,  413,  6o6ff., 

645,  657,  707,  75sff- 

Tomlinson,  D.  S.  A.. 338,  342,  344,  349 

Traver,  S 282,  306,  312 

Treibley,   D.   B 413 

Tressler,    J.    W 539 

Tressler,  V.  G.  A iii,  540,  844 

Trostle,  George    343 

Tryday,  Wm„  .  436,  492,  504,  539,  548 

Uhl,  Wm.. .  560,  645ft.,  693ft.,  707,  749 

Ulrich,  S.  J 323,  769,  775 

Umberger,  J.  B 528ff. 

Unangst,  E 191,  *93 

Unruh,  John  N...  529,  569,  643ft.,  670, 
687,  702,  708,  711,  762 

Valentine,  M.  H.,  Jr 262 

Van  Ormer,  A.  B.  Bunn 387 

Wachter,  C.  M 569,  574,  578,  649 

Wagner,  W.  J 437ft- 

Wagner,  A.  E 387 

Wagner,  F.   R 278ft. 

Wagner,  I.  H 560,  750 

Walterick,  J.  H 327ft-,  407ft-,  5", 

S24 

Weaver,  William 362ft.,  409,  475, 

569,  649 

Weaver,  F.  H 845 

Weeter,  J.  W 722 

Weidensall,    Robert 845 

Weidley,  John 380,  849 

Weigle,  E.   D 192,368ft. 

Weigle,  L.  A 292 

Weimer,  D.  S.. .  268,  643,  646,  740,  850 

Weiser,  Reuben,.  .  172,  176,  183,  256ft., 

259,  270,  320,  328,  335,  337,  356 

Welch,  J.  J 6o6ff.,  755ft. 

Welfley,  John 850 

Welker,   Joseph 458 

Whetstone,  A.  M 560,  746ft. 

Wicker,  S.  E 429,  850 

Wieand,  W.  R 404 

Wieand,  H.  E...  228,  262,  426,  449ff- 
Williams,  J.  R..  436,  449,  49i,  503,  516 
Williams,  J.  T...  311,  511,  519,  605ft., 

755ff. 

Willox,  John 162,  450,  452 

Winecoff,  Jesse...  260,  266,  335,  349, 

528ft.,  554ft.,  6i2ff.,  629ft.,  643ff-> 

693ft.,  7io,  73off. 


INDEX  OF  PASTORS 


PAGE 

Witmer,  Charles 351,  560,  693s., 

746,  749,  768,  774 

Wolf,  M 382 

Wynn,  W.  H 851 

Yeager,  William 172,  187,  257ft. 

297ft;  3i5ff-,  3^0,  328,  335ff.,  355, 
402,  567,  572 

Yingling,  Samuel 261,  269,  335 

Yost,   T.   J 561 

Young,  J.  J 596 


PAGE 

Young,  M.  L...191,  562,  614,  616,623, 

629,   633,   638,   700.   707, 

768,  771,  775 

Young,  L.  P 229,  5873. 

Yount,  J.  A 701 

Yung,  Charles....  557,  612,  629,  645, 

730,  732 

Zerger,  James  E 494,  540,  548 

Zimbeck,  S.  A. 693,  695 

Zimmerman,  Josiah. . . .  646,  707,  710 

Zimmerman,   W.   J 276,   335ft. 

Zinn,  J.  H 335ff.,  643ff. 

867 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Abelard    52 

Alaric    22,  23,  25 

Albigenses 8,  50,  88,  118 

Alcuin 51 

Alleghany   Synod  : 

Early   Settlements    148 

Organization        179 

First    Convention    182 

Synodical   Basis 188 

Synodical  Losses 190 

Synodical  Orphans'   Home     ..    190 

Synodical  School    189 

Synodical  Semi-Centennial        .    190 

Ambrose    1 1 ,  24 

Anointing     12 

Apocryphal    Books    3,  16,  67,  79 

Apology  to  Augsburg  Confession.      77 

Aquinas     5 1 ,  64 

Arches,    Triumphal 19 

Arianism 23,  24 

Armenian    Church    8,  31 

Arminius    87 

Arndt,     John 118,  144 

Articles    of    Smalkald 77 

Athanasius     119 

Attila    24 

Augustine    11,  24,  87,  97,  1 19 

Augsburg    Confession 77 

Augsburg,   Diet  of 77.  81 

Augsburg,   Peace  of 82 

Aurelius,  Marcus   5 

Baalbec 21 

Ban,  The   45 

Baptism    7,  74 

Bells    38 

Berkenmeyer,  William 123 

Bernard    of    Clairvaux    47,  50 

Bible,   of   Somerset 169 

Blandina     6 

Boccacio     55 

Boniface     29 

Calvin,  John    76,  78 

Campanius,  John    92 

Canon,  The  2 

Catacombs   18 

<  lharlemagne    29,  37,  42,  5 1 

Church    Architecture 8,  54,  133 

Church    Councils.  ...  1,  2,  8,  12,  13,  14, 
25,35.57,78,84,86 

868 


PAGE 

Church  Discipline    17 

Church    Government    17,  88 

Church   Hymns 37,  53,  75 

Church    Leaders 1,  24 

Church   Plays    53 

Church    Practices    ..  12,17,31,33,36, 
40,  133,  143,  145 

Church     Schools 16,  134 

Church  Worship 9,  36,  136 

Church   Year 10,  133,  139 

Churches  of  Juniata  Conference.    252 
Churches    of    Northeast    Confer- 
ence        358 

Churches     of     Somerset     Confer- 
ence        536 

Clement    of    Alexandria....  11,13,16 

Clovis    27 

Colet,  John 55 

Columba    27,  28 

Columban     29 

Confirmation     12 

Congregationalists    80 

Constantine    6,  23,  42 

Controversies    25 

Constantinople,   Fall  of    55 

Coptic    Church    8,  13 

Creeds   2,  25 

Crusades,    The 46 

Cyprian    16 

Cyril    30,  3  1 

Dante     55 

Day,  David  A 136 

Definite  Platform,  The..  127,  133,  140 

Diocletian    4 

Divisions  of  the  Church 32 

Division  of  the  Empire 23 

Diet    of    Augsburg 77.  81 

Diet  of  Spires 81 

Diet   of  Worms 68 

Doctrinal    Bases    of    the    General 

Synod   128 

Doctrinal    Bases    of    the    United 

Synod,  South 138 

Doctrinal    Basis    of    the    General 

Council     142 

Doctrinal   Basis   of  the   Missouri 

Synod    !  45 

Doctrinal  Bases  of  the  Alleghany 

Synod    188 

Domitian    4 


GENERAL    INDEX 


Dunkers    104,  113,  150 

Dutch  Lutherans   91 

Eckhart    56 

Edict  of  Nantes 79 

Edict   of  Worms 80 

Education    Society 185,  189 

Education     Society,     Parent 136 

Edwin   28 

Ember  Days    15 

Erasmus    55,  56,  68,  71 

Ethelbert    27 

Evangelism    187 

Faith  Healing 15 

Falckner,    Daniel 94ff. 

Falckner,    Justus    95,  108 

Fasting     14 

First   Congregations    1 

Foot-washing    14 

Francke,  G.  A 1 1 1 

Francke,  A.  H 1 18,  144 

Frederic,    Elector 65,  68 

General    Council    138,  i39ff. 

General    Synod    i25ff. 

German   Iowa    Synod 146 

German  Reformed,  The 113 

"Gloria  Dei"  Church 92 

Gratian,   Emperor    22 

Greek    Orthodox  Church.  15,18,33,34 

Gunn,    Walter 204 

Gustavus  Adolphus    84,  91 

Gutenberg    58 

Hadrian     5 

Halle   Institution    198 

Hartwig,  John 122,  135 

Harris,    J.    G 203 

Heidelberg     98 

Helena,    Empress 46,  63 

Helmuth,   J.    C 123,  134,  165,  196 

Henkel,  Anthony  Jacob 108 

Henkel,  Paul   109,  124 

Henry    VIII, 72,  74,  79 

Herkimer    101 

Huss,  John 37,  57.  58 

Ilgen    198 

Indulgence,    Plenary 49 

Inquisition,  The 80,  86 

Inner   Missions 137 

Interdict,    The    45 

Irenseus     1,  27 

Jacobs,   H.   E 90,  1 1 7 

Jerome    24 

Jerome  of  Prague 57 


Jesuits    85,  86 

Julian,    Emperor    22 

Justinian,    Emperor    22,  23,  24 

Justin   Martyr    1,  6,  7,  9,  12,  16 

Kelpians,   The    94,  104 

a  Kempis    56 

Knights  of  Malta 47 

Knights  Templar   47 

Kocherthal,    Joshua. .  99,  100,  108,  123 

Koester,    Henry 94 

Krauth,   Charles   Porterfield 141 

Krauth,    Charles    Philip 200 

Kunze,   J.   C 116,  123,  134 

Kurtz,   John   Nicolas    114,122 

Kurtz,   Benjamin..  .  .  132,  135,  186,  200 

Lehmanosky    202 

Liturgical  Forms   231 

Longobards   23 

Lord's  Supper,  Views  of.  11,  35,  51,  74 

Loyola    85 

Lull,  Raymond    49 

Luther 35,  37,  38,  sgff. 

Lutheran  Reunion   233 

Mack,   Alexander    103,  1 18 

Magdeburg    60,  82ff. 

Martin  of  Tours 27 

Massacre   of   St.   Bartholomew...      79 

Martel    29,  40 

Melanchthon    34,  71,  77,  78 

Meldonius    89 

Mennonites   ...  SS,  93,  94,  113,  118,  150 

Methodists    105,  1 14 

Miller,    Peter 104 

Ministerium,    Pennsylvania 122 

Ministerium,    New   York 123 

Missions — 

In  France 26 

In  Great  Britain    27 

In  Germany 29 

In    Northern    Europe 29 

In  Russia 30 

In  Bulgaria   30 

In    Central   Europe 31 

In   Asia    31 

Missions  of  General  Synod..  136,237 
Missions  of  General  Council....  144 
Missions  of  Alleghany  Synod..  i93ff. 

Missouri   Synod    144 

Mohammedanism 38,  40 

Monasteries    26,  34 

Monks,    Orders   of 50,  78 

Moors,  The 49 

More,  Thomas    55 

Mosheim    36 

Mosheim  Society  196 

869 


GENERAL   INDEX 


PAGE 

Muhlenberg,   H.    M i iff. 

Muhlenberg,  J.  P.  G 116 

Muhlenberg,  F.  A.  C 1 16 

Muhlenberg,   H.  E 116 

Muhlenberg    Mission 136 

Music   75 

Nero     3 

Nestorius    25 

Nicene   Creed    2,  25 

Palatines,  The   o6ff. 

Palatinate,  The    97 

Papal  Disputes 32 

Parent  Education  Society 136 

Pastoral  Support  16 

Passavant,  W.  A 2o6ff. 

Peace  of  Augsburg 82 

Peace   of  Westphalia 84 

Pelagius    25 

Pennsylvania  in  1770 149 

Persecutions     3,  40,  80,  85 

Petrarch 55 

Philo 16 

Pietism    113,114,117 

Pliny 4 

Polycarp    1,6,27 

Pope  Boniface  VIII 44,  55 

Pope  Gregory  VII 43 

Pope  Innocent  III 50,  54 

Pope    Innocent    IV 86 

Pope  Leo  1 24 

Pope  Leo  III    42 

Pope  Leo  IV 86 

Pope  Leo  X 66 

Pope   Leo  XIII 33 

Pope  Pius  IX 44 

Pope  Nicolas  V 55 

Pope  Sylvester  II 47 

Redemptioners,  The   102 

Renaissance,   The    55 

Reuchlin,    John 56 

Revivals   129 

Richard,  J.  W 191 

Rizer,  Martin   200 

Rowe,  A.  D 232 

Saints     37 

Salutation    13 

Salzburgers,  The i04ff. 

Savonarola    57ff- 

Schmucker,  S.   S....  131,132,141,208 

Schmucker,   J.    G 156 

Schmauk,  T.  E 90 

Schlatter,    Michael 113 

Schoharie   100,  102 

870 


Scholasticism    51 

Schoolmen,  The 50 

Schools    1 89 

Schultze,  J.   C 1 1  o,  1 1 6 

Schwartz,  Christian  F 111,119 

Singmaster,  J.  A 137,  141 

Socinus    88 

Slavery    1 89 

Spener    118 

Sprecher,    Samuel 133 

St.  Anthony    26 

St.   Benedict 26 

St.    Simeon 26 

St.    Patrick 28 

St.    Sophia    Church 30,  37 

Staupitz,   John 60 

Stoevers,    The no 

Sunday     n 

Sunday  School  Association,  Bed- 
ford County   248 

Sunday  School  Association,  Som- 
erset  County 240 

Swedes,   The    91,  108,  122,  127 

Synod  of  Maryland  and  Virginia.    123 

Synod  of  Ohio 124,  142 

Synod  of  North  Carolina 124 

Synod  of  West  Pennsylvania....    124 

Synod  of  Iowa 142 

Synod  of  Nebraska 215 

Tatian    16 

Trajan    4 

Teaching  of  the  Twelve 7 

Temple   Vessels 24 

Tertullian   2,  8,  10,  12,  13,  35 

Theodosius    22 

Titus,   Arch   of 18,  24 

Temperance 18S 

Tennyson   41 

Tauler    56 

Tetzel 63,  64 

Torkillus    92 

Ulfilas     23 

Union  of  the  Church. 33,  34,  41,  77,  130 
United  Synod  in  the  South 138 

Vandals,  The 24,  25 

Veils     13 

Vulgate,  The 24 

Waldenses,    The 50,  64,  78,  1 1 8 

Walther,  C.  F.  W 144 

Weiser,  Conrad 98,  101,  1 15 

Wentz,  Ross  Abdel  72 

Wesleys,   The 4,    105 

Wessel    56 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

William  of  Orange 80 

William  of  Occam 52 

Wolf,   E.   J 104,  126,  245 

Woman's  Home  and  Foreign  Mis- 
sionary  Society 234ft. 

Wyclif    37,  57,  58 


PAGK 

Xavier    86 

Young  Lutheran,   The 233 

Ziegenbalg    119 

Zinzendorf    105, 113,  118 

Zwingli    76,  77,  119 

871 


